Historical Sites in Uganda

Imagine a land where lush rainforests meet the one and only source of the Nile. That’s Uganda for you. After several years of civil war, The Republic of Uganda is enjoying peace and quiet. A thriving nation that showcases its rich history and natural beauty emerged from several hardships since then.

Uganda boasts the best of the best, from the breathtaking beauty of its landscapes to its majestic mountains and fauna such as Mountain Gorrillas. Furthermore, Uganda’s richness goes way beyond its scenery – it also has numerous historical sites.  These sites are protected for their cultural heritage value, and offer a glimpse into Uganda’s military, political, social, and cultural past.

Let’s explore 6 must-visit historical sites in Uganda shall we? 

1. The Independence Monument

Every country that gained independence can attest to the freedom that comes with it, right? That’s especially true for Uganda, and we have a monument to show for it, as it commemorates our achievement of independence from the British way back in 1962. 

Our independence monument is located right opposite the Grand Imperial Hotel, Kampala. This symbol of freedom truly showcases the significance of independence with a lady in bondage raising a child towards the sky. It tells our story, just by looking at it. 

2.Kasubi Tombs

Kasubi Tombs, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is yet another historical site in Uganda with significant meaning for the Buganda kingdom. It’s located about 6 kilometres from the capital city, Kampala right after Mengo, Rubaga. Did you know that 4 Buganda kings (kabaka) were buried in these shrines? And that’s how Kasubi Tombs gained its popularity. 

This displays Uganda’s cultural heritage. Oh, and by the way, the shrines also feature a wide collection of traditional instruments and musical instructions which you can play whenever you visit. It’s a vivid reminder of our country’s colourful past. 

3. The Uganda National Museum

Founded in 1908, the Uganda National Museum offers a ton of exhibits from traditional culture, history, archaeology, science, and natural culture. You can find several of these collections at Makerere University Library, which by the way, is Uganda’s most prestigious and oldest university, founded in 1922.  The university probably boasts the longest list of African presidential alumni including Milton Obote (Uganda), Mwai Kibaki (Kenya), Julius Nyerere (Tanzania), Benjamin Mkapa (Tanzania), Yusuf Lule (Uganda), Joseph Kabila (Zaire), but that is for another day.

The most important and specialised museum collections are stored at Albert Cook Library at Makerere Medical School, the Uganda Polytechnic Kyambogo and the Institute of Teacher Education (now Kyambogo University), the Cabinet Office and finally, the Makerere Institute of Social Research.

4. Namugongo Shrine

Namugongo Martyrs Shrine, which has been in existence since 1886, is one of the most recognised, popular and most visited historical and heritage sites in Uganda today.

In these shrines, 22 Catholic Christian converts (also known as the Uganda Martyrs), were killed under the orders of King Kabaka Mwanga ll.

For a more accurate account of the late Kabaka Mwanga II, order The review of Mwanga II: Resistance to Imposition of British Colonial Rule in Buganda, 1884-1889, by Professor Samwiri Lwanga Lunyiigo.

Every 3rd of June, pilgrims commemorate martyrs who lost their lives because of their faith in God. Uganda Martyrs Day is big in terms of attendees, estimated at 3 million in 2023 by the Uganda Police Force

“Over 3 million participants were effectively secured, including foreign Christian delegations from the USA, Europe, South Africa, Ghana, Cameroon, Nigeria, Malawi, Kenya, Tanzania, Rwanda, Burundi, DRC, South Sudan among others.”

Usually, pilgrims trek on foot from across the country, neighbouring countries and from Europe and beyond. Although on paper it seems that this event is purely Christian, in reality this is a public holiday celebrated by Ugandans and foreigners in different ways.

Makeshift shelters near the shrines selling Kikalayi, beer and discotheques are active until late, as most Kampalans and visitors descend into big celebratory mood.

It is difficult to describe this event in detail. I urge you to do so in 2024 – 3r June is only around the corner.

5. Nyero Rock Paintings

Up for a long drive in Uganda? Well then, head over to the western part of Kumi town, Ngora Road (Eastern Uganda) and experience the beauty of the Nyero rock paintings. You can find these amazing rock paintings in three different rock havens. One part of the Nyero rock painting symbolises animals, concentric circles and canoes. These paintings are also claimed to be works of art done by the earlier occupants of that area. 

6. Source Of The Nile – Speke Monument

The Source of the Nile is popular thanks to John Hanning Speke, the first European to reach Lake Victoria. Today, the source of the Nile at Jinja is one of Uganda’s best tourist attraction centres and hails just how much Uganda’s history sites speak volumes. There are fantastic views of the lake. It is also a great place to take pictures and to watch birds thanks to the serene scenery. You could even catch a glimpse or two of the famous kingfisher bird. It’s also home to several animals, like monkeys, etc.

Then there is a really fun part – a boat cruise with informative tour guides.

When hungry, stop by the multiple restaurants nearby and experience Uganda with all its beauty.

The deep fried Ngege and chips and a bottle of 500ml Uganda’s Nile Special Beer will leave you full to the brim.

Bottom Line

And there you have it. Visit Uganda anytime to experience its rich history. Check out our next post about.5 Most Popular Foods in Uganda

Historical Sites in Uganda