1) Mutsamudu historical citadels
Mutsamudu citadel is the most important citadel overlooking the harbour
It was built by the former sultan in the 18th century to protect the city against the foreign attacks both by pirates and by the rival sultans
It was finally improved with defense canons by French colons in the late 19th century
The Medina of Mutsamudu is one of the beautiful Medina of the island with its famous narrow streets and colorful small material shops
Mutsamudu, founded around 1482, is the capital and main city of the island of Anjouan, in the Comoros. It is known for its deep-water port and its airport, which serve Europe, China, and mainland Africa. The city has been the commercial and cultural center of the island for several centuries, influenced by various civilizations and cultures. The medina of Mutsamudu, one of the oldest medinas in the archipelago, is a testament to this complex history.
As an old city state with a rich history on Anjouan Island, it was founded around 1482 under Halima I, the Sultan of Anjouan. Originally known as "Dambwe," the area was initially inhabited by Mozambic Muslim families. The city's name, "Mutsamudu," is derived from "Musa Mudu," meaning Moisés le Noir, a descendant of the Makuas, a Bantu language group. The Makuas were Mozambic workers who contributed to the island's food and water supply for Portuguese ships. The city's strategic location and historical significance as a port and center of power have made it a vital part of Anjouan's history.
Mutsamudu is today, the largest deep sea harbour of the Comoro archipelago
It used to be the area for the nobility of the island with its beautiful old carved doors and windows, the old buildings with chalkcoal and rocks
You also see Pangahari public square and the old spice market
