1520 AD Biharwe Eclipse Monument, National monument near Igongo Cultural Center, Mbarara District, Uganda.
Description
The monument consists of three granite pillars that rise toward the sky with a spherical form at the top representing a solar eclipse. The structure stands beside the Igongo Cultural Center and offers insight into the interconnections between the Great Lakes kingdoms.
History
The monument commemorates 1520, when King Olimi I of Bunyoro abandoned his cattle and warriors during a solar eclipse. This event marks a pivotal moment in the history of the major kingdoms of the region.
Culture
The three pillars honor three rulers of the 1520s era: Nakibinge of Buganda, Olimi I of Bunyoro, and Ntare I of Nkole. Visitors can connect with the local royal history directly at this location.
Practical
The site is located next to the Igongo Cultural Center and easy to find when visiting that venue. The area is straightforward to reach on foot and offers a good chance to explore multiple cultural locations in a single visit.
Did you know?
The spherical top of the monument casts shifting ground shadows throughout the day that mimic the progression of a solar eclipse. This interplay of light reveals why the historical event left such a powerful impression on the king.
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide. Discover all places nearby (Mbarara District).
Virunga National Park
138 km
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
127.9 km
Akagera National Park
124.7 km
Rwenzori Mountains National Park
132.7 km
Mount Muhabura
151.9 km
Mount Sabyinyo
159.2 km
Margherita Peak
140.1 km
Mount Gahinga
155 km
Kitagata Hot Springs
66.8 km
Kyambura Game Reserve
84.9 kmKatwe craters
103.9 kmKalinzu Central Forest Reserve
74.4 km
Minziro Forest Reserve
107.9 km
Inema Art Centre
173.5 km
Mount Luigi di Savoia
135 km
Kagombe Central Forest Reserve
152.4 km
Ruwenzori
150.3 km
Kisiizi Falls
103.1 km
North Rwenzori Central Forest Reserve
159.9 km
Mtakuja River
108.9 km
Nyabujera
68 km
Karambi Tombs of Tooro Kingdom
140.4 km
Our Lady of Sorrows Cathedral – Kitovu
115.7 km
Mugaba Palace
14.2 km
Ntaruka Hydroelectric Power Station
152.8 kmPlage aux Hippos
112.1 km
Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary
110.3 km
Royal Tombs of Ankole
13.1 kmDiscover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes