homepage   |    about mafia   |    history & culture   |    nature   |    kinasi   |    activities   |    excursions   |    doing nothing   |    logistics & services Home :: about mafia :: Mafia in history   Mafia in history Mafia lies across the historic trade routes of the ancient Azania Coast, running from Somaliland to Sofala, in Mozambique. The trade route yielded gold, ivory, slaves, live animals, animal furs and skins. Mafia's location would have provided an excellent stop for refilling water containers and making repairs to ships, as it was a peaceful island that welcomed travellers. The more important port was Kilwa, where ships could be fully victualled and cargoes bartered.   Our historical research shows that Egyptian, Phoenician, Roman, Arab, Greek, Chinese, Portuguese, French, American and British ships have visited Mafia from at least 500 BC. Peoples of many different foreign origins have lived here: African (Madagascar, Comoros, Mozambique), Indian, Yemeni, Baluchi, Omani, Shirazi, Chinese, Japanese and European. The racial potpourri can be seen today in the wide variety of skin colour and stature of the local inhabitants. The historical mix has also left a culture of great variety and tolerance.   Mafia has been the property of the Sultan of Kilwa, the Sultanate of Oman, Germany and Britain, before Tanzania became independent.   The history of Mafia has been a study of special interest for us and our library holds many books, extracts and reports of Mafia down through the ages and its trade and cultural links to the World. [ Top of page ] ruins of German resid... [+]   shopkeeper, Kilindoni [+]   the great dhow, Jibon... [+]   mihrab, ancient mosqu... [+]   Where is Kinasi Gallery CONTACT US Prices and Special Offers Enquiries & bookings Useful Web Links SIte Map