Travel: The King’s Royal Palace in Nyanza

For those who wish to escape the hustle and bustle of the city, Nyanza town in the southern province is the best escape destination. In this town, you will be at the centre of what is considered royal in Rwanda’s traditional history. Nyanza town is a one and a half hours drive from Kigali City.

Sunday, February 08, 2009
The reconstituted Royal traditional hut. (Photo PNtambara).

For those who wish to escape the hustle and bustle of the city, Nyanza town in the southern province is the best escape destination. In this town, you will be at the centre of what is considered royal in Rwanda’s traditional history. 

Nyanza town is a one and a half hours drive from Kigali City. The road to Nyanza is paved and many commuter taxis ply the route in that you will be spoilt for choice if you do not have private transport means.

The Rwandan Ancient History Museum opened last year is a must visit for every Rwandan and visitor interested in learning about the lives Rwandan Kings lived.

Formerly the home of King MUTARA III Rudahigwa, the museum documents life at the Palace from the time of King Yuhi V Musinga and his son King Rudahigwa.

The King’s Royal hut has been reconstituted to depict life as it was during the reign of King Musinga –the last King to live in such a hut.

Just across the valley you will be able to see Mwima hill where the King Mutara III Rudahigwa and Queen Rosalie Gicanda are buried.

At the Kings Royal Palace, you will also be able to see Rwesero hill where lays the Majestic Palace that was meant to be King Mutara III Rudahigwa’s residence. 

He never lived to occupy it. It has now been turned into an Arts Museum where Art works that depict the History of Rwanda are showcased.

To complete this royal tour, a spiritual tour of the imposing Christ- Roi Church is a must because it is here that King MUTARA III Rudahigwa was christened Mutara III Rudahigwa Pierre Charles and it is here that he finally dedicated Rwanda to Christ the King on October 27 1946.

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