Mandala House, Colonial building in Blantyre, Malawi
Description
Mandala House is a two-story colonial structure in Blantyre with a wraparound veranda built from local materials including grass, mud, and bricks. The building displays characteristic features of early architecture with solid construction that has endured over time.
History
The African Lakes Corporation built this house in 1882 as one of the first two-story structures in the region. It stands today as the oldest remaining building in Malawi and marks an early period of colonial development.
Culture
The space now hosts an art gallery where visitors encounter contemporary works and exhibitions reflecting the local creative scene. It serves as a meeting point where people come to engage with artistic expression in a relaxed setting.
Practical
The building is located on Kaoshiung Road and accessible during regular opening hours with an art gallery space and a cafe on-site. Visitors should check ahead about opening times and any special exhibitions to make the most of their visit.
Did you know?
The name comes from the Chichewa word for eyeglasses that John Moir, one of the founders, wore and which locals associated with the building. This linguistic link between a simple object and the structure shows how local people perceived and named the place.
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide. Discover all places nearby (Blantyre).
Mount Mabu
158.3 km
Lake Malawi National Park
193.6 km
Liwonde National Park
112.2 km
Dona Ana Bridge
183.6 km
Mount Namuli
224.9 km
Chongoni Rock Art Area
184.5 km
Majete Wildlife Reserve
31.6 km
Mulanje Mountain Forest Reserve
61.3 km
Armando Emilio Guebuza Bridge
228.1 km
Samora Machel Bridge
156.9 km
Lengwe National Park
58.8 km
Chichiri Museum
3.3 km
Kapichira Falls
30.1 km
Kassuende Bridge
155.5 km
Chambe Peak
56.3 km
Sapitwa
64.7 kmLupata Gorge
141.3 km
Kuti Wildlife Park
240.8 km
R&L farm - Ranch
227 km
Kungoni Centre Of Culture And Art
176.7 km
Bunda
223.1 km
Nchalo
55.4 km
Satemwa Tea Estate
32.6 km
Kumbali Castle Gardens
240.5 km
Michiru Forest Reserve
7.9 km
Nkhoma Mountain
220.4 km
Lilongwe Nature Reserve
241.5 km
Lizulu Horticulture Market
241.3 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