Somalia is a country in the northeastern part of the African continent, located in the area called the "Horn of Africa" between the Gulf of Aden and the Indian Ocean. What kind of image do you have of Somalia? You may have heard about it on the news, but not many people know that there are several tourist spots in the country.
But even in Somalia, there are tourist spots that even the general public can enter. This time, we will introduce some of Somalia's tourist spots. Because it is a country that is not well known, you may be able to encounter mysterious tourist spots that may change your outlook on life.
Even though it is called "tourism," Somalia is not in a state where foreign people can "tour" alone like other countries. Before leaving the country, be sure to check the situation on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs overseas safety website and consider your itinerary.
1. Mogadishu Cathedral
You might wonder if there are any Christians in Somalia, given that the majority of Somalis are Muslim. This cathedral is a historical structure, proving that Christians once lived in Somalia during the colonial period. Built in 1928 by the Italian authorities who ruled the area, it stands as a testament to that era.
Unfortunately, much of the cathedral was destroyed in 2008 by some extremist factions. Today, only parts like the outer walls remain for visitors to see. Even from these ruins, one can imagine the grand scale and elegance of this once-impressive building.
Name: Kaniisadda Katooliga
Address: Via Ahmed Bin Idriss, Mogadishu, Somalia
2. Shanghai Old City
Shanghai Old City is one of Somalia's most iconic tourist destinations. Dating back to the Italian colonial period in the 18th century, it includes the remains of a fortress and town built along the Indonesian coast. Some grand buildings still showcase the remnants of Italian colonial architecture. The old city area at the time was called "Shanghai Old City."
Although much of the town now lies in ruins, the contrast between the cobalt-blue sea and old European-style buildings can make one feel momentarily transported to a European resort.
Name: Shanghai Old City
Address: Corso Somalia, Mogadishu, Somalia
3. Lido Beach
Somalia, situated along the Indian Ocean, has several renowned beaches. Among them is Lido Beach, considered one of Africa's best! Its sandy shore is kept impeccably clean, making it an attractive tourist spot. Capturing just the scenery here, you might feel as if you're in a tropical resort.
While there are risks in deeper waters, such as sharks, swimming or boating is possible during safer hours with proper security. Experiencing a resort-like setting in Africa is truly unique, isn’t it?
Name: Lido Beach
Address: Secondo Lido Beach, Mogadishu, Somalia
4. Bakaara Market
If you want to learn about the interesting parts of a country when you are sightseeing, it is essential to experience the places where the local people live.
You can get a glimpse into the lives of the Somali people at Bakara Market, which was established in 1972. Located in the center of Mogadishu, the capital of Somalia, tourists can purchase everything from clothing to food and souvenirs from Somalia. Most of the clothing and other items are imported from China, so if you want to buy something unique to Somalia, we recommend that you check carefully before purchasing.
There are also souvenir shops selling traditional Somali goods in the market, so it may be fun to look around these places.
Name: Bakaaraha Market
Address: W Bakaaraha, Mogadishu, Somalia
Official/related website URL: http://www.visitmogadishu.com/index.php/en/things-to-do/bakara-market
5. Central Mosque
As you know, the main religion in post-colonial Somalia is Islam. In the capital city of Mogadishu, there is a large mosque that can accommodate 10,000 worshippers. This is the Mogadishu Central Mosque, built in 1987.
It was closed for a time during the civil war but reopened in 2008. There are also new parts that were just renovated in 2015, so it's a spot where you can feel the atmosphere of both old and new Islam.
Name: Mogadishu Central Mosque
Address: W Jamaal Cabdinaasir, Mogadishu, Somalia
Official/related website URL: https://web.archive.org/web/20070607173848/http://archnet.org:80/library/sites/one-site.tcl?site_id=7810
Summary
Somalia is a country that foreign people rarely visit as tourists. It may be a good opportunity to escape from your everyday life and take a fresh look at yourself. By seeing a country that no one has ever been to and experiencing it with your own body, you will grow as a person.
Somalia is gradually recovering from its poor security situation, so it may be an experience that allows us to reaffirm the wonderfulness of peace.