King’s Palace Museum in Rwanda is in Nyanza town north of Butare. Nyanza was the heart of Rwanda. According to the history of oral tradition, this place was the site of battles and battle struggles. The palace was built in 1989 with the help of the Belgian government that was colonizing Rwanda at the time. The structure of this Museum is like a beehive, Grass thatched from top to bottom.
Behind this Museum is a herd of long-horned cattle called Inyambo, also known as “The sacred cows.” owned by the descendants of the king. The caretakers do a great job of preserving a unique tradition as they sing to the cattle while looking after them.
These cows played a big role during ceremonies in honor of the king. The Inyambo cattle are decorated with jewelry. The breed of these cattle is still carried out by the Rwanda Agricultural Board.
The king’s palace museum used to be a palace for the two ruling kings from the early to mid-20th century. This place holds a rich history, and it was built for King Mutura III Rudahingwa. The building Walls have photos of the kings plus their families.
It is said that King Mutura III Rudahingwa’s bed, bows and arrows, shields, drums, utensils, and many more are still present in this palace. The German colonialists used to visit the King in the late 19th century and brought him many gifts.
At the king’s palace is where different traditional activities are carried out, like traditional dances, cultural games, and cultural arts, this is where young people come together to compete in these cultural activities, and when they win they are given prizes as a way of encouraging them to keep their culture and heritage intact.
The King’s palace museum has done tremendous work in preserving and sustaining the culture of Rwanda for the next generations to come. Due to globalization, many cultures have sprouted up which has made most young people forget their origin, but the existence of this place makes a difference.
Visiting this place will help you learn much about Rwanda’s culture and opportunity to buy some souvenirs.
Accommodation at King’s palace museum
King’s palace museum has a variety of hotels and lodges that include mid-range, budget, and luxurious where you can find a room of your comfort to spend a night.
While on your tour to Rwanda, visit this Museum for a memorable Cultural experience, you will have both English and French-speaking guides, and picks one of your choices as they narrate to you the rich history of this magnificent Museum.
How to get to King’s Palace Museum
From Kigali international airport, the town of Nyanza is 88 kilometers and can be accessed two kilometers southwest of Nyanza town located on the hilltop.