Discover Butare Town Rwanda : Discover Butare, Rwanda is a fascinating destination rich in history and culture. Known as this town was once the largest in Rwanda until 1965 when Kigali become capital city. Butare is celebrated as a centre of leaning and culture, rather than politic like Kigali. During the Belgian colonial era, the place was better referred to astride city and this was done in commemoration of the Belgium Queen Astrid. Visitors love Butare for its variety of historical and cultural attraction. Key spots includes National Museum of Rwanda where the country’s ethnographic collections, beautiful botanical garden, and local craft shops.
Butare town is located in the Southern Province of Rwanda, capital of Huye District and is home to about 75,000 residents. This area boasts important institutions like the University of Rwanda’s Collage of Education and the well-known Nyakibanda Seminary also recognized as the Rwandan National Institute of Scientific Research.
If you’re into faith-based tourism, don’t miss the Ruhande Arboretum and local cathedrals. You can also enjoy Butare Stadium, a great place to relax and watch local soccer’s games or enjoy performances from talented local musicians.
Tourists Attractions found in Butare
Butare Roman Catholic Cathedral
Butare Roman Catholic Cathedral is also known as Our Lady of Wisdom Cathedral in Butera, is famous for being the largest cathedral in the Rwanda. Its also known for its historical significance as a landmark during the colonial era. It is also notable as the seat of the Diocese of Butare and the site of various catholic missions and educational institutions. The Cathedral was built in the 1930s when Butare (known as Astrida after 1935) was the colonial capital to commemorate the life of Astrid of Sweden Queen consort of the Belgians until 1935.
Palace Museum in Rakali
The Palace Museum is about 3km off from its original site, and it (Nyanza Palace) was where the monarchy of Rwanda was situated. A reconstruction of the traditional royal residence, the King’s Palace is a beautifully-crafted thatched dwelling shaped like a beehive. In olden times, Nyanza was the heart of Rwanda. According to oral tradition, it was the site of battles and power struggles. At the palace, tourists have plenty to explore including the distinct traditions, background information about the power struggles and battles of the royal family. This museum showcases the traditional royal palace of Mwami, where you can take a guided tour. One of the highlights of your visit will be the King’s room, which contains some of the original furniture and decor from that time.
Murambi Genocide Centre
The Murambi Technical School, now known as the Murambi Genocide Memorial Centre, is situated near the town of Murambi in southern Rwanda. This was the site of a massacre during the 1994 Rwandan genocide. At this memorial site, you will explore more about the atrocities this historic town suffered. A perfect illustration of it is all showcased with graphics and devastating events of the civil war.
National Museum of Rwanda
The National Museum of Rwanda, also known as the Ethnographic Museum, is located in Huye District, which is about 130 km south of Kigali. Specifically, it’s situated in the town of Butare, also referred to as Huye and is on the way to Nyungwe National Park. The museum features East Africa’s ethnographic collections. The items displayed at this town include decorations, full-scale replica of traditional hut, country’s historical and cultural exhibits as well as traditional handcrafts.
Butare Market
Butare Market is a busy market that welcomes visitors every day except Saturday located in the heart of Butare. Here, you can discover a wide range if local products such as fresh fruits and vegetables, handmade crafts, and traditional clothing. This market offers an excellent way to learn how Rwandans shop for their everyday needs. Exploring this market lets you truly feel the vibrant spirit of Butare.
The University of Rwanda
The University of Rwanda is one of the best schools in the country. It has different departments such as medicine, law, and engineering. The university also offers a variety of cultural events, such as traditional dance and music performances.
Kibuye Market
Kibuye Market is a lively spot right in the center of Butare. Here, you can find a wide range of local products like fresh fruits and vegetables, handmade crafts, and traditional clothing. It’s a great place to explore and soak up the atmosphere of Butare.
Other places which can also be spotted at Butare town include, Nyungwe National Park home to diversity of primates. This park protects over 13 species of primates –including 400 colobus monkeys, 500 chimpanzees, l’hoest monkeys, silver monkeys, black and white colobus monkeys. Karisimbi volcanoes, Butare Botanical Garden, Lake Kivu, Ntarama church, Gishwati Forest, Akagera National Park, Gikongoro genocide memorial, and Nyabarongo river among others are also stunning attractions \ found with the Butare town.
