Known as the land of a thousand hills, Rwanda’s stunning scenery and warm, friendly people offer unique experiences in one of the most remarkable countries in the world.
Warm and friendly, Rwandans are also respectful, thoughtful, and committed to the idea of progress, starting at the grassroots and running all the way to the top.
In a series of continuing articles about Rwanda’s uniqueness and beauty, Today Hobe Australia has prepared a story that tells about King’s Palace Museum in Nyanza, known as Rukari.
The King’s Palace Museum is located in Nyanza District, Southern Province of Rwanda, 88 kilometers from Kigali, the capital city of Rwanda.
This palace is located in Nyanza, a town that was the heart of Rwanda in the olden days and the seat of monarchy since the reign of King Yuhi V Musinga in 1899 until the country became a republic in 1962.
When his son, Mutara III Rudahigwa, became king, he went to live in Rukari, where he built a house that served as the King’s headquarters.
This house consists of different sections, which provide an analytical picture of the nature of the kingdom and how Rwanda was ruled before the republic. The Rukari Palace includes a large house that was considered the primary residence of the king and queen.
It served as a place where the king welcomed and entertained guests. Another section is dedicated to the royal cattle, known as ‘Inyambo,’ and there is also a section devoted to the storage and distillation of wine and beverages.
Additionally, there is a house where milk was processed, another section, and a large ground where events and games were held within the palace.
The King’s Palace in Rukari was destroyed when the kingdom was overthrown.
Things became bad during the Genocide against the Tutsis in 1994 when this house was destroyed and looted.
Later, this palace was restored to its 19th-century appearance based on its replica. In 2008, it was opened to all who wanted to visit it. It was built with traditional materials. The long-horned royal cows called ‘Inyambo’ were brought back, as they were one of the basic elements of Rwandan culture and a symbol of the kingdom’s honor.
These cows delight visitors on a regular basis due to their impressive long horns, height, and calm nature.
Today, it is used to showcase the history of Rwanda since the 15th century. Near Rukari Palace, there is Mwima Hill where you can visit the resting place (Tomb) of King Mutara III Rudahigwa, his wife Queen Rosalie Gicanda, and the last King of Rwanda, Kigeli V Ndahindurwa.
