Mandhry Mosque 🇰🇪

Step into history at Mandhry Mosque, nestled in the Old Town area of Mombasa. Built in 1570 (977-978 AH) by Omani settlers, this remarkable site is the oldest mosque in Mombasa and the second-oldest in Kenya. You will find a structure that has survived the era of violent Portuguese rule and has been lovingly maintained by the Mandhry clan for centuries.

The mosque is crafted in the traditional Swahili architectural style, originally built using coral burned into ash and mixed into a local lime mortar known as chokaa. While it was originally white, it was later painted yellow to help preserve it and distinguish it from surrounding buildings. As you explore, you will notice its simple exterior and its rare rounded minaret, a feature shared by only a few mosques along the Swahili Coast.

Mandhry Mosque is also exceptionally rare as one of only two mosques in the world featuring two mihrabs. Inside, you can admire five arched doors, four carved windows, benches, arched openings, and historic inscriptions. Within its oldest section, you will see the original minbar, Quranic inscriptions, and what is regarded as the oldest Quran in Kenya, preserved inside a weather-controlled case.

What to see at Mandhry Mosque

• The oldest mosque in Mombasa, built in 1570 by Omani settlers
• One of only two mosques globally to feature two mihrabs
• Displays Kenya's oldest Quran, housed in a weather-controlled case
• Features a rare rounded minaret and yellow-painted Swahili architectural design
• Maintains original 16th-century features, including its original minbar

Visiting tips

Look out for the nearby Mandhry well, which was traditionally used for wudu (ablution) prior to worship.

How long: 1-2 hours · Best time: Early morning

How to get there & what’s nearby

Mandhry Mosque is easy to reach on Mombasa’s public transport, and pairs naturally with Haller Park. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Mombasa travel guide.