11 Otherworldly Cities That Feel Like They’re in a Different Timeline

10. Gedi: The Swahili City of Mystery

Hidden within the coastal forests of Kenya lies Gedi, an ancient Swahili city that thrived between the 13th and 17th centuries. Despite its significance as a center of trade and culture, Gedi was mysteriously abandoned in the 17th century, leaving behind a landscape of ruins and unanswered questions. The city’s stone structures, including a mosque, palace, and houses, reflect the architectural and cultural influences of the Swahili Coast, showcasing a blend of African, Arab, and Persian elements. Gedi’s abandonment and subsequent rediscovery have fueled speculation and intrigue, with theories ranging from environmental changes to social upheaval. Today, Gedi remains a place of mystery and wonder, inviting visitors to explore its ruins and ponder the secrets of its past.