Gede Heritage Spatial Documentation Metadata Dataset

This master metadata spreadsheet documents all of the Gede ruins heritage items published by the Zamani Project.<i>The information in this site description is provided for contextual purposes only and should not be regarded as a primary source.</i><br>Gede is a Swahili archaeological site comprising coral stone structures, including mosques, houses, and tombs arranged within a walled town layout. Architectural features such as mihrabs, water cisterns, and decorative niches reflect Islamic influence and urban planning. Excavations have revealed trade goods and domestic artifacts, indicating participation in Indian Ocean commerce. Gede provides insights into Swahili cultural identity, religious practice, and economic networks.<br>Gede is listed as the UNESCO World Heritage Site, <b>'The Historic Town and Archaeological Site of Gedi'</b>.The Zamani Project seeks to increase awareness and knowledge of tangible cultural heritage in Africa and internationally by creating metrically accurate digital representations of historical sites. Digital spatial data of cultural heritage sites can be used for research and education, for restoration and conservation, and as a record for future generations. The Zamani Project operates as a non-profit organisation within the University of Cape Town.<b>Special thanks</b> to the Saville Foundation, and the Andrew W. Mellon Foundation, among others, for their contributions to the digital documentation of this heritage site.<i>If you believe any information in this description is incorrect, please contact the repository administrators.</i>