Monday, June 3, 2013

Suakin - town made of corals

I liked Suakin with his crumbling houses already 10 years ago.
Suakin, Sudan
The houses were built from corals and are several hundred years old. In earlier times, slaves were shipped from here. Even today Suakin is an important harbor.  Moreover, a ferry goes from here to Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. This service is used mainly for the Haj, die Muslim pilgrimage to Mecca.

I was told that Kassala is the place to go to for a nicer climate even in summer. Maybe a misunderstanding.  However – there are many ethnic minorities that live here and the market is very exciting. Everywhere big swords are produced and sold. These are made more for tradition than they are used as a weapon. They are not sharp anyway. Some swords are even out of wood. The swords are used in traditional dances and as a status symbol.

Taking photos here would have been very nice, but unfortunately, people did not like the idea. Well, better stay clear then.


Suakin, Sudan