Kano is a Nigerian state in the country’s northern region. It was established as a state on May 27, 1967. Kano shares boundaries with Katsina, Jigawa, Bauchi, and Kaduna.
It was reported in 2016 as Nigeria’s most populous state, with a population of over 15 million people, the majority of whom are Hausas and Fulanis and speak Hausa as the dominant language.
Kano is one of the twelve states in the country governed or operating under Sharia law. Its capital, which bears its name, is Nigeria’s second-most populous city after Lagos.
Because it stands on the site of numerous civilizations, kingdoms, and empires, including the kingdom of Kano, which existed from 1000AD-1349AD, modern Kano is blessed with an abundance of tourism potentials, including historical monuments and old places of great significance.
Kano state is known as the “City of Commerce” because it is home to one of Nigeria’s first and largest markets.
Planning a trip to Kano state, Nigeria? These 10 classic places to visit in Kano will make your visit to the ancient city worthwhile.
1. Kano City Wall:
In one of his 1903 reports, Lord Lugard described the wall, also known as Kano Badala, as the most impressive monument he had ever seen in West Africa. Sakri Aijimasu built the wall between 1095 and 1134 AD.
2. Dala Hill:
The Dala hill dates back to the 7th century. This hill is 534 meters high and has about 999 steps, a feature that makes it possible to view a large part of the city of Kano from its top.
The hill was also home to a community of ancient people that are known for working with iron.
3. Kurmi Market:
Kurmi market is northern Nigeria’s oldest public market. It was founded in the 15th century. Although it began as a warehouse for North African slaves, this market has evolved into a major trade hub for traditional wares. This market is located in Kano’s heart.
4. The Great Mosque of Kano:
This great mosque is the spiritual place of worship for Muslims. It was built in the 15th century. Reputed to be the oldest mosque in Nigeria, the mosque is a towering edifice that has attracted lots of visitors from around the world. The mosque is located at Murtala Mohammed Way, Kano.
5. Gidan Rumfa:
The Gidan Rumfa is located at the fringe of Kano town and it is the home of the present Emir of Kano. It was built in the late 15th century by the late Emir Muhammed Rumfa and it is still an architectural masterpiece. This place is one of the locations one can learn about the historic lives of the emirs.
6. Kofa Mata Ancient Dye Pit:
Kofa Mata is an ancient dye pit. Its existence dates back to 1848.
The pit which is an indigo-vegetable dyeing pit is fascinating to see and the works of art it imprints on fabrics are still popular and in great demand.
7. Gidan Makama
Gidan Makama Museum Kano or Kano Museum is a museum in Kano, Nigeria. The building served as temporary palace of Sarakunan Hausa (Kings of Hausa) of Kano before the current palace Gidan Rumfa was constructed in the 15th century.
The museum has a significant collections of arts, crafts and items of historic interest related to the Kano area. Located in a 15th-century historical building, which is recognised as a National Monument by the Government of Nigeria.
The museum is divided into 11 galleries, each with their own centre of focus. Galleries include the Zaure or the main entrance hall with displays of traditional materials, city walls and maps of Kano, the history of statehood, Kano in the 19th century, the Civil War, economy, industry and music.
8. Challawa Gorge Dam, Karaye LGA
Challawa Gorge dam is a hydroelectric power source and is situated in Karaye Local Government Area. It was erected between 1990 and 1992, has a height of 42m and a length of 7.8km. This dam is a source of irrigation for the residents of Karaye LGA, it, therefore, is a major part of their everyday life.
9. Ado Bayero Mall
The Ado Bayero Mall is situated at zoo road and is quite unknown to people that are not resident in Kano. It is, however, the biggest mall in Nigeria. This mall, named after the longest-serving Emir of Kano, Alh (Dr.) Ado Bayero is a place in Kano where you can get virtually anything you want.
10. Tiga Dam
Tiga dam was built in 1974 and is situated at Tiga, Kano. This damn is a source of irrigation for farmers that are resident in Kano and its environs. The aim of building the Tiga dam was to bring about an improvement in the security of food in Kano state. At this dam, you can either decide to take cool pictures or go for a swim in the water.
These 10 classic places when you visit them in Kano will make your stay in the city a worthwhile.
