The Emir's Palace is a sprawling compound of traditional Hausa-Islamic architecture — thick mud walls, layered gateways, and interior courtyards that have housed Kano's emirs for over 500 years. You cannot enter without a personal invitation from the emir, but the square in front is worth lingering in: local dignitaries and petitioners come and go throughout the day in a stream of colour and ceremony that gives you a real sense of the palace's continuing importance.
Emir's Palace
500-year-old Hausa-Islamic palace still seat of Kano's emir
A story
The palace, known as Gidan Rumfa, was built in the late 15th century by Emir Muhammad Rumfa. Its construction on the outskirts of the then-existing town effectively extended the city's boundary — and it was Rumfa who then established Kurmi Market nearby to serve the growing population.