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Mwima Mausoleum
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The Mwima Mausoleum, located in Nyanza, serves as the final resting place for King Mutara III Rudahigwa and his wife, Queen Rosalie Gicanda. King Mutara III, who reigned from 1931 until his sudden death in 1959, is remembered for being the first Rwandan monarch to convert to Catholicism and for his efforts to modernize the kingdom's social structure. The mausoleum is situated on a hill overlooking the traditional royal capital, providing a solemn site for reflection on Rwanda's monarchical history. Queen Rosalie Gicanda, who was widely respected for her grace and charity, was tragically murdered during the 1994 genocide against the Tutsi, and she was later interred here alongside her husband. The site is a key component of the Nyanza cultural trail, which also includes the King's Palace Museum. Today, it remains an important national monument, attracting historians and visitors interested in the complex transition of Rwanda from a kingdom to a republic.
- Location: Rwanda
- Top sights: Mwina - Mausoleum · Nyanza Palace · King's Palace Museum
- Nearby: Ruhango (12 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 19 | 20 | 19 | 19 | 18 | 18 | 18 | 19 | 20 | 20 | 19 | 19 |
| Rain mm | 137 | 125 | 178 | 176 | 108 | 50 | 29 | 65 | 107 | 157 | 224 | 152 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
Mwima Mausoleum is the resting place of King Mutara III Rudahigwa and Queen Rosalie Gicanda, and it is open for visits. The memorial is set in a quiet, well-kept compound and is accessible during daytime.
Typical hours
The mausoleum typically has fixed opening hours from around 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., but it is advisable to call ahead. Access may be restricted on holidays or during commemorations.
Photography
Photography is allowed on the grounds but not inside the mausoleum itself. The outdoor area with its memorial stones and flower beds provides dignified subjects.
Time needed
A visit typically takes 20 to 30 minutes as the compound is quite small. Still, take a moment to reflect on the significance of this site in Rwandan history.
Combine with
The mausoleum is in Butare (now Huye) and can be combined with the National Museum of Rwanda or the Ethnographic Museum. Butare Cathedral is also worth a visit.
Getting there
Mwima Mausoleum is in the Cyarwa neighborhood of Butare and is reachable on foot from the city center. Alternatively, take a motorbike taxi (moto), which is common in town.
Insider tip
Show respect by wearing appropriate clothing and speaking softly when entering the grounds. There is often a caretaker who can show you the way to the tomb and explain historical background.
Geography
Facts
- King Mutara III passed away on July 25, 1959, in Bujumbura under mysterious circumstances.
- The mausoleum is situated on Mwima Hill, overlooking the town of Nyanza.
- Queen Rosalie Gicanda was interred here following her death in the 1994 genocide.
- Mutara III was the first Rwandan king to be baptized into the Catholic Church in 1943.
- The site is managed by the Institute of National Museums of Rwanda.
- It serves as a primary site for the annual commemoration of the Rwandan monarchy.
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Sights in the town Mwima Mausoleum (4)
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Frequently asked questions
What is the Mwima Mausoleum?
It is the resting place of significant historical ruling figures.
Is there a dress code for the Mwima Mausoleum?
Yes, please dress respectfully and modestly.
How much does admission to the Mwima Mausoleum cost?
The fee is small and serves to maintain the site.
Is the Mwima Mausoleum open on holidays?
It is often closed on official holidays or has modified hours.
Is filming allowed at the Mwima Mausoleum?
Filming inside is usually prohibited.
Mwima Mausoleum: where is it located?
Mwima Mausoleum is located in Rwanda.
Mwima Mausoleum: what is there to see?
Highlights include Mwina - Mausoleum, Nyanza Palace, King's Palace Museum.
Mwima Mausoleum: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Mwima Mausoleum: why is it worth visiting?
The Mwima Mausoleum, located in Nyanza, serves as the final resting place for King Mutara III Rudahigwa and his wife, Queen Rosalie Gicanda.
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