A vast complex of houses, tombs and mosques, the Gede ruins are nestled deep in the forest near the Kenyan Coast. Visitors can also see the remains of an ornate Swahili palace.

Though excavations have uncovered evidence of trans-continental trade - such as Ming Chines porcelain and glass, and pottery from Persia - the site is not mentioned in any historical texts, adding to its mystery.

photo: http://picasaweb.google.com/losiersp/MalindiAndGede/photo#5050386013822505538