Kilwa Kisiwani, an island off the coast of present-day Tanzania, was a prominent trading center on the Swahili Coast from the 9th to the 19th century. At its peak during the 13th to 15th centuries, it controlled much of the gold and ivory trade from inland Africa to the broader Indian Ocean world, connecting with Arabia, Persia, India, and even China. Its strategic location and sophisticated urban infrastructure, including grand mosques and stone fortresses, made Kilwa one of the most powerful city-states in East Africa. The island’s historical significance is highlighted by its well-preserved ruins, which are recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.