Whenever the word tourism is mentioned, we hardly imagine that tourist attractions are available within our reach. Kampala city, Uganda’s capital is such a fascinating place to visit. From the rich culture and friendly people, this city offers a wide range of experiences to tourists who take time to explore it. Here are some places to visit on a Kampala city tour.
Uganda National Museum
Uganda Museum is East Africa’s oldest museum that was started in 1908. The museum which is located on Kitante Hill is a collection of traditional culture and Ugandan music that is enriched with all kinds of instruments, archeology, history, science and natural history.
Mengo palace
Mengo palace that was built in 1885 is a home to Kabaka Ronald Muwenda Mutebi II, the King of Buganda. The palace has been a home to several Buganda kings although it was rendered empty in 1966 when the Prime Minister, Milton Obote ordered an attack to oust Kabaka Mutesa II who was the President of Uganda. When a visit is paid to the historical site, they will be guided around the deadly torture chambers of Idi Amin Dada and will walk the royal mile from Bulange royal building.
Kabaka’s lake
This is the largest manmade lake in Uganda which was constructed between 1885 and 1888 by fifty-two clans of Buganda Kingdom during the regime of Ssekabaka Mwanga II. The Kabaka’s original plan was to construct a wide channel so that he cruises by boat to reach Lake Victoria for swimming, fishing and also stay at his place at Mulungu hill. It was as well meant to serve as an escape route in the event of an armed conflict with the British.
Uganda Martyrs Shrine Namugongo
Between 1885 and 1887, 32 young men were killed to death for refusal to renounce Christianity, 22 were killed as authorized by King Mwanga of Buganda while 13 were burnt to death.
Others were killed in different ways whereas, two were speared to death in Paimol, Gulu in the Northern part of Uganda in October 1918.
On 3rd June of every year, thousands of Catholic and Protestant pilgrims gather at the Shrines to attend prayers in remembrance of the martyrs.
Uganda National Mosque
Located on Old Kampala Hill, the Uganda National Mosque also known as Gadaffi Mosque is the biggest mosque in Uganda and can accommodate up to 20,000 people in its main sitting area, gallery and terrace. It acts as the headquarters of the Uganda Muslim Supreme Council and was constructed as a gift to Uganda by the late Col Muammar Gaddafi.
Namirembe Cathedral
Also known as Saint Paul’s Cathedral, Namirembe is Uganda’s oldest cathedral and the provincial headquarters of the Church of Uganda. The cathedral was founded in 1890.
One needs to check out these places when they visit Kampala.
