Zeila Old Town
Awdal
Zeila Old Town, locally known as Saylac, is a historic port town located in the Awdal region of Somaliland along the Gulf of Aden coast. It has a rich history dating back to antiquity, identified by many scholars as the ancient trade post Avalites mentioned in the 1st-century Periplus of the Erythraean Sea. The town flourished as a cosmopolitan center inhabited by Somalis, Afars, and Arabs, becoming a key Islamic hub shortly after the Hijrah. By the 9th century, Zeila was the capital of the early Adal Kingdom and later the Ifat Sultanate, reaching its peak prosperity in the 16th century. The town was historically fortified with a large wall featuring five gates, which protected its diverse population and trade activities. Zeila's strategic location near the Djibouti border and its surrounding coral reefs, mangroves, and offshore islands, including the Sa'ad ad-Din archipelago, contribute to its unique coastal environment. Today, it remains culturally significant as the traditional home of the Issa clan and a historic seat for the Gadabuursi Ughazate, reflecting its enduring legacy in Somali history and culture.
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Tip: Visitors should plan to visit Zeila during the dry season for the best weather and accessibility. Due to its historical significance, arranging a guided tour can enrich the experience by providing insights into its medieval architecture and cultural heritage. It is advisable to check local conditions and obtain any necessary permissions or guides from local authorities, as the area may have limited tourist infrastructure. Purchasing tickets or arranging visits in advance is recommended when possible. Discounts may be available for students or group tours.
Interesting facts
- •Zeila was identified by medieval Jewish traveler Benjamin of Tudela with the Biblical land of Havilah.
- •The town was historically surrounded by a large wall with five gates named Bab al-Sahil, Bab al-Jadd, Bab Abdulqadir, Bab al-Sahil (west), and Bab Ashurbura.
- •Zeila's coral reefs and mangroves support unique marine biodiversity along the Gulf of Aden coast.
- •The Sa'ad ad-Din archipelago nearby is named after Sultan Sa'ad ad-Din II of the Sultanate of Ifat.
- •Zeila served as the coronation site for the Ughaz (traditional leader) of the Issa clan.
History
Zeila's origins trace back to ancient times, identified with the port of Avalites known from classical Greco-Roman sources.
It was a key trading hub connecting Northeast Africa with the Near East and India, thriving on maritime commerce.
In the medieval period, Zeila became the capital of the Adal Kingdom by the 9th century and later the Ifat Sultanate in the 13th century.
The town prospered in the 16th century under Islamic rule and later came under Ottoman and British protection.
Its fortified walls with five gates marked its importance as a strategic and cultural center.
Over centuries, Zeila evolved as a melting pot of ethnic groups and a seat of local clan leadership and treaties.
Place Guide
Historic City Walls and Gatesmedieval period
The ancient defensive walls of Zeila, once enclosing the town with five distinct gates, reflect its medieval importance and strategic coastal defense.
Sa'ad ad-Din Archipelagonamed after 14th century Sultan
A group of offshore islands named after Sultan Sa'ad ad-Din II, significant for its historical and ecological value, featuring coral reefs and mangroves.
Contact
Phone: 63 4552731
