Discover Kampala: Culture and History

Kampala brings together Baganda history, places of religious remembrance, diverse architectural styles, and cultural attractions. When planning your trip, the question is therefore not only where to stay in Kampala, but also which side of the city you want to shape your stay: historic architecture, religious commemoration, an educational guided tour, or performances. These places differ in subject and form; their details can help you decide what to focus on during your trip.

Kasubi Tombs: Architecture and the History of Rulers

The Kasubi Tombs are an important spiritual center for the Baganda, where traditional and cultural practices are preserved. UNESCO describes the site’s enduring cultural and spiritual significance. The circular main tomb building is covered by a dome and is considered an important example of construction using plant-based materials such as wooden poles, spear grass, reeds, and woven materials. The combination of the circular shape, dome, and plant-based building materials makes the architecture a distinct subject in addition to the history of the burials. King Mutesa I’s palace was built in 1882 and converted into his tomb two years after his death. The Kabakas Mwanga, Daudi Chwa II, and Edward Mutesa II also chose the Kasubi Royal Tombs as their burial place instead of their own palaces.

City Views and Places of Remembrance

In central Kampala, the Independence Monument is located between the Sheraton Kampala Hotel, the Grand Imperial Hotel, and Stan-Chart Bank. Rubaga Cathedral offers a different perspective: it stands on a hill with views across Kampala. A monument in its transept commemorates the Uganda Martyrs; 22 Catholic victims are depicted in the stained-glass windows. While the monument is distinguished by its central location, the cathedral combines city views with remembrance of the Uganda Martyrs.

Walking Route, Guided Tour, and Performances

The Royal Mile is a walking route featuring agricultural clan symbols and the “Nantawetwa” drum roundabout; the roundabout is accessible only to the Kabaka. In Bulange, an educational tour takes visitors through the Buganda parliament building and includes clan totems and cultural exhibits. There is also an opportunity to observe a session from the gallery. The National Theatre hosts music, film, dance, and theater performances, as well as free outdoor events. When planning your trip, check the specific event dates if you would like to combine your visit with a performance. What matters most when choosing here is the kind of experience: a walk along the Royal Mile, an educational tour in Bulange, or performances and outdoor events at the National Theatre.

A Building North of Kampala

In the area near Kampala, a nine-sided Bahá’í temple stands on Kikaaya Hill. It was built between 1958 and 1961. Unlike the places mentioned above, it lies north of the city. Its nine-sided shape differs from the circular dome of the main tomb building at the Kasubi Tombs. If you plan to visit the temple, consider its location north of Kampala as a separate destination.

For the broader travel overview: Kampala.