What is today seen as typically Swahili architecture is still very visible in the thriving urban centers of Mombasa, Lamu and Malindi in Kenya and Songo Mnara, Kilwa Kisiwani, and Zanzibar in Tanzania. The distribution of Swahili architecture and towns provides important clues about trade relationships among different regions and societal systems. Exotic ornament and design elements also connect the architecture of the Swahili coast to other Islamic port cities.
The current style of Swahili architecture is still evident in the bustling urban centers of Mombasa, Lamu, and Malindi in Kenya and Songo Mnara, Kilwa Kisiwani, and Zanzibar in Tanzania. The distribution of Swahili architecture and towns provides valuable insights into trade connections between different regions and social structures. Exotic ornamentation and design elements also link the architecture of the Swahili coast to other Islamic port cities.