MORONI, Comoros — Comoros has secured a historic place on the global cultural map after six ancient medinas were inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List.

The medinas, located across Grande Comore and Anjouan, include historic palaces, mosques, public squares and narrow streets reflecting the architectural and cultural traditions of the former Comorian sultanates. Some of the settlements date back to the 12th century.

Among the recognised sites is the historic Moroni medina, home to the iconic Friday Mosque and traditional buildings near the old dhow port. The Itsandra and Iconi medinas are also among the sites receiving international recognition.

The UNESCO listing is expected to strengthen efforts to preserve historic buildings, traditional practices and cultural tourism. Authorities have also highlighted the vulnerability of some of the oldest structures because of uncontrolled urban development and modernisation.

The recognition gives Comoros a major opportunity to promote its cultural identity while developing heritage tourism and conservation programmes.

The development follows wider efforts to protect Comorian living heritage. UNESCO has also supported national capacity-building around intangible cultural heritage, including traditional crafts and cultural practices across the islands.