The History of Rwandan Architecture 3
The history of Rwanda includes both concrete and abstract elements that provide visitors with knowledge of Rwandan mythology, culture, and history. With locations all over the country, it is easy to include at least one of these fascinating locations in any itinerary for Rwanda. The national museums of Rwanda are among the best in East Africa.
Kigali Genocide Memorial
The Aegis Trust raised the $2 million needed to construct the Kigali Genocide Memorial in 2001 in cooperation with Rwanda's National Commission for the Fight against Genocide (CNLG). On April 7, 2004, the tenth anniversary of the 1994 genocide, the centre was officially opened.
Up to 259,000 genocide victims are buried at the memorial, which also serves as a place for people to grieve and remember their lost loved ones. It serves as a museum where local and international visitors can research the causes, methods, and results of the genocide.
National Art Gallery (Nyanza)
It was constructed for Rwanda's King Mutara III Rudahigwa, who passed away in 1959, just before he was set to move into his contemporary palace, which is located in a spacious colonial structure atop the lovely Rwesero Hill. The artwork on display in this museum, which includes both traditional and modern works, attests to the creativity of Rwandans. The National Art Gallery is a fantastic surprise because it's not often that you find such a carefully chosen selection of art on a lovely green hilltop out in the countryside.
Sainte-Famille Church
It is one of the oldest Catholic missions, having been founded in 1913, and is situated on a hill close to Rugenge's commercial area. Although the building is made of red brick, white panels are used to adorn its facade. In addition to the parish church, it has a visitor centre, a clinic, a primary school, a driving school, and structures that the parish rents to private individuals.
Green Mosque (Masjid al-Fatah)
The largest and oldest mosque in Rwanda, Masjid Alfatah, is situated about 7 kilometres southwest of Kigali's downtown in the suburb of Nyamirambo (also called Nyamijos). It is known as "the Green Mosque" because of its green and white minarets. It was established in the late 1930s when Muslim traders first arrived in Rwanda and began settling in the Kigali suburbs.
Cathedral of Butare
It is a Catholic Church-owned religious structure that is situated in the southern Rwandan town of Butare. Built in the 1930s, when Butare served as the colonial capital, it is regarded as Rwanda's largest cathedral and was created as a tribute to the Swedish Princess Astrid. The interior of the building has a long hallway, arches, and large windows that give the space a light appearance. On the exterior, admire the Mary sculpture and take in the big garden.
