Visit Namugongo Martyrs Shrine in Uganda – Short Kampala city tours
Visit Namugogngo martyrs shrine in Uganda – About 15 km east of Kampala city lies the Namugongo martyrs’ shrine where more than 20 catholic and Anglican martyrs were burnt alive on the orders of Kabaka Mwanga in June 1886. Consequently, christians from eastern and central Africa and indeed the world over flock to Namugongo to pay their respects and renew their faith by paying pilgrimage to the martyrs on June 3rd, every year. A church was constructed in the shape of a traditional Baganda hut (akasiisiira) in memory of the martyrs. It stands on 22 copper pillars representing the 22 catholic martyrs. In front of the main entrance to the church, below the altar is the spot where Charles Lwanga, the leader of the Catholics was burnt on June 3rd 1886.The church was consecrated by Pope Paul VI on August 2nd, 1969.
- Location
in Namugongo, outskirts of Kampala city along Kampala – Jinja road. the place where it’s located is called bwoyogere
- Getting there
15km, by road from Kampala city centre along Kampala – Jinja road. It is accessible by public transport. Hire a car for self-drive in Uganda online with Kampala car rental services
- What to do
Exploring the roots of religion in Uganda, fellowships and restoration of faith.
- When to visit
For tourists it’s open all year round but for believers
prepare to reach there before June 3rd (Martyrs’ day) of every year.
Things to do around Kampala Uganda
Visit Namugongo martyrs shrine in Uganda – Things to do around Kampala Uganda. Kampala is Uganda’s capital city. It’s also the national and commercial capital of Uganda bordering Lake Victoria, Africa’s largest lake. Hills covered with red-tile villas and trees surround an urban center of contemporary skyscrapers. In this downtown area, the Uganda Museum explores the country’s tribal heritage through an extensive collection of artifacts. On nearby Mengo Hill is Lubiri Palace, the former seat of the Buganda Kingdom.
Kampala has many charms within the rolling seven hills on which it sits and each offering a unique history, point of view of the beautiful chaos and several attractions to keep you engaged for a few days. Here are our top picks.
Buganda Royal Tombs Kasubi
Kasubi Royal Tombs is the burial site for the Kings and royal family members of the Buganda Kingdom. UNESCO listed Kasubi Tombs for their significance to the Kingdom. A visit to the Kasubi Tombs gives visitors an impression of a rural village with its impressive grass thatched hut originally built for Kabaka Mutesa I as a palace in 1882, which was turned into a burial site after his death two years later.
African Traditional Markets in Kampala-Uganda
Kampala City is dotted with colorful crafts markets which are also called craft villages. These Markets sell vibrant crafts ranging from prints, baskets, paintings, pottery, jewelry and much more. While some are in permanent locations such as the Craft Village behind the National Theatre and Craft Centre on Buganda Road, some are weekly and monthly including one in Makindye a Kampala suburb and one in front of the Railway Station in the city center. Get a chance to interact with the artists and even ask them to make something especially for your request.
The Uganda Museum
The Uganda Museum established in 1908, is the oldest museum in East Africa. The museum displays Uganda’s cultural heritage where one can see ethnological and natural historical exhibitions, a vivid reminder of the country’s colorful past. It also features a collection of traditional musical instruments, which are free to play.
Restaurants for Local Foods
Kampala has got a variety of restaurants which are a premium eatery offering a completely unique and fine dining experience centered on Ugandan local food. Using fresh, natural flavors, top quality produce and expert technique, it creates intense food that is unpretentious but delicious and beautiful to behold. If a step away from the norm is something you’re looking for, dine at one of these restaurant for that authentic Ugandan food experience.
Wandegeya Market
Wandegeya Market is located in the school district in Kampala. Filled with a youthful vibe, this market has boutiques, salons, fresh produce and offices. It’s also home to the legendary Rolex and TV Chicken a Kampala’s popular street foods featuring an omelet, raw tomatoes and grilled chicken mixed together with fries and an assortment of vegetables like cabbages, tomatoes, carrots and green pepper respectively. If you are ever in Wandegeya for anything, it should be for either the Rolex or the TV Chicken or both.
Parliament of Buganda Kingdom Bulange Mengo
Bulange is the Buganda Kingdom’s administration and parliament. In the past, sessions used to be held under trees before they moved to the grass-thatched building. Construction for Bulange began in 1955 when Ssekabaka Mutesa returned from exile in Scotland with a drawing of how he wanted it to look. It was completed in 1958. It’s a good place to learn about the history and culture about Buganda. Ladies shouldn’t wear trousers when visiting this place as far as the culture of the Buganda people. Contact Great Adventure Safaris about Namugongo Martyrs shrine in Uganda and things to do around Kampala Uganda.