Category: History

Father Balthazar Gafuku’s life was filled with extraordinary events. Born in 1885 to Kamurama and Nyirahabimana in the Zaza Mission, now part of the Kibungo Diocese, Gafuku faced significant health challenges as a child.

His parents, believing he had passed away after serious illness, abandoned him in a swamp. He was later discovered and rescued by missionary priests who took him in, providing him with education and guidance that would eventually lead him to the priesthood. This occurred during the reign of King Kigeli IV Rwabugiri.

According to sources, Gafuku received his catechism education in Zaza and, at the age of 18, was baptized in Mibirizi, which was part of Cyangugu at the time.

His journey to the priesthood began in July 1904, when Bishop Joseph Hirth, who had established the Catholic Church in Rwanda, welcomed Gafuku, Donat Reberaho, and other young men, including Joseph Bugondo and Pierre Ndegeya, into the seminary at Hangiro in Bukoba, later relocated to Kyanja-Rubia in Tanzania.

Gafuku and Reberaho completed their studies in the minor seminary from 1904 to 1909. From 1909 to 1910, they pursued philosophy, and from 1910 to 1913, they studied theology. Gafuku was ordained as a deacon on October 8, 1916, alongside Reberaho. A year later, on October 7, 1917, both men were ordained as priests by Bishop Hirth at the Kabgayi Cathedral.

Father Gafuku went on to serve in various capacities throughout his priesthood, including assignments at the Kabgayi Major Seminary and in the Nyundo Diocese. In 1930, he was assigned to serve in Mibilizi, where he had been baptized. He returned to Kabgayi two years later and in 1941 was assigned to Mugombwa, where he celebrated his 25th anniversary as a priest.

Father Gafuku passed away on June 14, 1959, at the age of 74, from a cerebral hemorrhage. He was buried in Mugombwa in the Diocese of Butare, with Bishop André Perraudin presiding over his burial.

Father Donat Reberaho, born in Save in 1884, was baptized on December 25, 1903. He was ordained as a priest on the same day as Father Gafuku. He passed away on May 1, 1926, at the age of 41.

The Catholic Church in Rwanda continued to grow after their ordinations. In 1952, Monsignor Aloys Bigirumwami became the first Rwandan bishop.

On November 28, 2020, Antoine Cardinal Kambanda, the Archbishop of Kigali, was appointed as Rwanda’s first cardinal, further cementing Rwanda’s place in the global Catholic community.

These ancient trees, planted at what was once the entrance to the king’s palace, are more than mere botanical giants.

They are living relics of a time when Rwanda’s monarch ruled over the land, symbols of the grandeur that greeted visitors as they approached the royal residence.

A nearby signpost erected by the Rwanda Culture and Heritage Academy (RCHA) provides further insight into the historical importance of this location, which sits just a few meters from the shores of Lake Kivu.

The choice of this location was not merely for its scenic beauty but for its strategic role in the military expeditions of the time. King Kigeli IV Rwabugiri, who reigned from 1853 to 1895, used his royal palaces—particularly those near Lake Kivu—as staging grounds for military expeditions.

Nyamasheke holds a special place in this royal history. It was here that King Rwabugiri resided when he received the German explorer Von Gotzen in May 1894.

After this historic meeting at Kageyo in Ngororero, the king returned to Nyamasheke to celebrate the Umuganura festival in June, a traditional Rwandan harvest festival symbolizing unity and prosperity.

Following the celebrations, he embarked on one of his most significant military expeditions.

Tragically, King Rwabugiri’s fate was sealed during one of these expeditions. While on his way to the battlefield in Bunyabungo, he was poisoned at Iyamabini Island.

Although efforts were made to return him to his residence, he died in a boat before reaching Nyamasheke. His body was received at his residence and later transported to Riture in Gicumbi, where he was laid to rest.

The peninsula of Mivura, near the residence, served as grazing land for the king’s cattle, adding another layer to the significance of this area.

Today, the royal residence may have faded into history, but the ficus trees continue to stand as enduring guardians of King Rwabugiri’s legacy.

As you stand beneath the broad branches of these ancient trees, it’s easy to imagine the grandeur that once defined this royal site.

Celebrated on August 15 every year, the day commemorates the belief that Mary, the mother of Jesus, was taken up into Heaven, body and soul, at the end of her earthly life.

In Rwanda, the day is particularly special to the members of the Catholic Church, as thousands of pilgrims often throng the Kibeho Holy Land, renowned for the apparitions of the Virgin Mary.

The ‘Holy Land,’ situated in the Nyaruguru District of Southern Province, rose to prominence four decades ago following reported apparitions of Mary to three high school girls.

Alphonsine Mumureke was the first to claim that she saw a Lady of incomparable beauty, who presented herself as ‘Nyina wa Jambo’ (Mother of the Word), while in the cafeteria of the Catholic boarding school Kibeho College, Rwanda, on November 28, 1981. The 16-year-old girl said that she immediately recognized the Lady as the Blessed Virgin Mary.

Mumureke’s claims were initially met with scepticism, with some people dismissing her as crazy or possessed by evil spirits. Others accused her of fabricating the story to gain favour at the school run by the Benebikira Sisters.

Amid the scepticism, two other students at the school, Marie Claire Mukangango and Nathalie Mukamazimpaka, also reported the phenomenon, further deepening the mystery.

From May 1982, the phenomenon was reported outside the college of Kibeho with some visionaries claiming to have seen Mary and others Jesus.

The growing number of visionaries prompted an inquiry by the Catholic Church, led by Mgr. Jean Baptiste Gahamanyi, former Bishop of the Diocese of Butare, to which Kibeho belonged at the time.

As part of the investigations into the reported apparitions, two separate commissions were established by the local Catholic Church. A medical commission began its inquiry on March 20, 1982, while a theological commission was installed on May 14, 1982.

The main mandate of the two committees was to investigate the events with all objectivity, patience, serenity and without taking into account their personal emotions.

While conducting their probe, it’s documented at the Kibeho Sanctuary that the two commissions were guided by instructions given by the Holy See: The “Norms for Judging Alleged Apparitions and Revelations”, published by the Congregation of the Doctrine of Faith on February 24, 1978 in Rome. The Holy See is the central governing body of the Catholic Church worldwide.

Given the large number of supposed visionaries, the commissions had to prioritize the first eight cases—those from the first year of the apparitions at Kibeho, which occurred between November 28, 1981, and November 28, 1982.

“This choice, however, was a working hypothesis, not a presumption of authenticity for such a large number of visionaries,” Kibeho Sanctuary explains on its website.

In the months and years that followed, the commissions released reports about the apparitions, and on August 15, 1988, Augustin Misago, the Bishop of Gikongoro, approved public devotion linked to the apparitions at Kibeho.

To promote the already authorized public worship, Mgr. Misago presided over the laying of the foundation stone for the future chapel of the apparitions on the esplanade of the shrine during the first anniversary of the apparitions on November 28, 1992.

On May 31, 1993, the very first official Diocesan pilgrimage to Kibeho took place with the intention of praying for peace in Rwanda. This was at the height of the liberation war between the Rwandan Patriotic Army (RPA) and government forces.

On November 20, 1993, about one year after the laying of the first stone for the Shrine of Kibeho, the Bishop blessed and inaugurated a provisional Chapel in one of the dormitories of Kibeho Secondary School, nicknamed the “dormitory of the apparitions”.

Sadly, in April 1994, during the Genocide against the Tutsi, Kibeho Parish Church became a site of massacre. Many victims, who sought refuge there, were killed in what should have been a safe haven for them.

After the country’s liberation and the beginning of the nation’s healing journey, pilgrimages started at Kibeho on Christmas Eve of 1995.

Nearly six years later, on June 29, 2001, Bishop Misago declared the authenticity of the Kibeho apparitions, paving the way for even more pilgrimages to the site.

“Yes, the Virgin Mary appeared at Kibeho on November 28, 1981, and in the months that followed. There are more reasons to believe in the Apparitions than to deny them… The Apparitions of Kibeho are now officially recognized… The name given to the Marian sanctuary at Kibeho is Shrine of Our Lady of Sorrows,” the late bishop declared in his judgment.

He added, “That Kibeho become a place of pilgrimage and of encounter for all who seek Christ and who come there to pray, a fundamental centre of conversion, of reparation for the sins of the world and of reconciliation, a point of meeting for ‘all who were dispersed’, as for those who aspire to the values of compassion and fraternity without borders, a fundamental centre that recalls the Gospel of the Cross.”

Today, tens of thousands of pilgrims from around the world visit the site each year to seek blessings.

The Assumption Day celebrations are marked by a Mass and prayers led by devotees. Water from the fountain near the church is said to have miraculous properties. Pilgrims collect it in jerry cans, have it blessed by the priest, and take it with them when they depart.

Xi’an, a city with over 3,100 years of history, served as the capital for 13 dynasties. The discovery of the Terracotta Warriors in 1974 was a remarkable archaeological find, unveiling a vast underground army that has captivated the world ever since.

The Mausoleum Site Museum, a UNESCO-protected masterpiece, is one of China’s top attractions. This large-scale underground military museum, showcasing the buried army replica of Emperor Qin Shihuang, is recognized as one of the most significant archaeological excavations of the 20th century.

Representing the Qin Dynasty’s military power, these thousands of life-size figures are impressive by their size, number, and detailed craftsmanship. Today, over 8,000 soldiers, 130 chariots with 520 horses, and 150 cavalry horses can be seen at the site.

As one of China’s most famous attractions, alongside the Great Wall and the Forbidden City, the Terracotta Army scenic spot attracts thousands of people from around the world with estimated daily visitors reaching 10,000.

The site, discovered in 1974 by a farmer digging a well, has been ranked as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1987 for its marvel and need for preservation for future generations.

The Terracotta Army’s history began in 246 BC when Emperor Qin Shi Huang, at age 13, ascended to the throne. Known for unifying China, large-scale constructions including the Great Wall and more than 700 palaces around and outside central Shaanxi Province, Qin Shihuang ordered the construction of the Terracotta Army and Horses to protect him in the afterlife.

Sources indicate that the site was under construction for 38 years, requiring around 700,000 workers. The buried treasures and sacrificial objects accompanying the Emperor in his afterlife have provided significant insights for today’s archaeologists.

The Mausoleum Site Museum covers an area of 16,300 m2 with three main pits filled with more than 8,000 terracotta warriors and horses and over 40,000 bronze weapons. Pit No.1, the largest and first discovered, showcases 6,000 terracotta warriors and 35 horse-drawn chariots. Pit No.2, discovered in 1976, contains over 1,300 warriors and 90 chariots. Pit No.3, the smallest, resembles the command headquarters of the armed forces. These pits, along with accessory pits, form the core of the museum.

Upon close inspection, one will notice that every three yards, a puddle wall divides the underground army into distinct columns.

To safeguard the site, a spacious arched hall has been constructed above the pit, ensuring excellent ventilation and natural light for its preservation.

Recently, the museum has embraced modern technology to enhance visitor accessibility. An online ticket platform now allows overseas tourists from 39 countries to make reservations using their local currencies, supporting 24 languages and 29 different currencies.

With its rich history, immense scale, and continuous discoveries, the Emperor Qinshihuang’s Mausoleum Site Museum remains a testament to China’s enduring legacy and a beacon of its cultural heritage. The Terracotta Warriors stand as a silent yet powerful reminder of the ancient civilization that continues to fascinate and inspire people around the world.

Tanzhe Temple, along with Jietai Temple, is one of the most renowned and venerated temples in suburban Beijing. Spanning an inner area of 25,000 square meters and an outer area of 112,000 square meters, the temple complex is grand in scale and steeped in history. Nestled within Beijing’s Western Hills, the temple’s expansive grounds climb the hillside, shaded by towering cypresses and pines.

Dating back to the Jin dynasty (AD 265–420), Tanzhe Temple reached its zenith during the Qing dynasty, becoming a royal pilgrimage site for emperors Kangxi and Qianlong. The temple’s layout follows three main axes, with the central axis featuring the Mahavira Hall as its centerpiece. Behind this hall stands the ‘Emperor Tree,’ a majestic gingko believed to be over 1000 years old.

Among the ancient trees in Tanzhe Temple, the most famous is the 1,400-year-old ginkgo known as the “Emperor Tree,” planted during the Tang Dynasty. Standing over 40 meters tall with a diameter exceeding 4 meters, it takes six or seven people to encircle its trunk. Legend has it that during the Qing Dynasty, the tree grew a new branch each time a new emperor ascended the throne, with the branch eventually merging with the old trunk. Emperor Qianlong named it the “Emperor Tree” during his visit.

In the early 1960s, Aisin Giorro Puyi, the last emperor of the Qing Dynasty, visited Tanzhe Temple as a common citizen. Pointing to an unmerged branch, he humorously remarked, “I am this small tree. It grows up twisted because I am worthless.”

The Emperor Tree is renowned and deeply revered. Some visitors often hug it, believing its ancient presence and sacred location bring spiritual benefits and longevity.

At the rear of the complex, the Guanyin Pavilion offers breathtaking views of the temple and the surrounding mountains. Within this pavilion, a stone slab bears the footprints of Princess Miaoyan, Kublai Khan’s daughter, who, according to legend, was so devoted to Buddha that her incessant praying wore deep ruts into the stone.

The western axis of the temple includes the octagonal Lengyan Altar, while the eastern axis houses the abbot’s quarters, historically used by visiting emperors. Another intriguing feature is the Floating Cups Pavilion, a Qing-era water feature that also served as an ingenious drinking game.

Tanzhe Temple is particularly enchanting in mid-April when the magnolias are in full bloom, drawing visitors from near and far to witness the stunning floral display.

Tanzhe Temple, with its rich history, cultural significance, and natural beauty, provides a peaceful retreat from the urban hustle and a glimpse into China’s profound spiritual legacy. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply in search of tranquility, Tanzhe Temple is a must-visit destination in the outskirts of Beijing.

Built in 1272 and reborn from the ravages of two devastating fires, these iconic structures were more than architectural wonders; they were the very heartbeat of the capital during the Yuan, Ming, and Qing Dynasties (1271-1911), regulating the rhythm of daily life for centuries.

Originally, the bell and drum were not intended for timekeeping. These instruments served as musical accompaniments, echoing the melodies of ancient China. However, as early as the Han Dynasty (206 BC-220), their role evolved into something far more essential. The phrase “a morning bell and a dusk drum” became ingrained in the cultural lexicon, signifying their importance in helping people navigate the passage of time.

In ancient times, telling the time by them played an important role in helping Chinese people live and work regularly when there was no other means to keep track of the time.

As a result, these towers became public architectural landmarks and were widely constructed in almost every city throughout the country since the Han Dynasty.

Thus, the towers that housed these instruments became integral public structures, their unique fore-and-aft alignment in Beijing setting them apart from the traditional side-by-side arrangement found elsewhere.

The Bell Tower, a striking brick and stone edifice, commands attention with its two floors, each adorned with arched doors on all four sides. Visitors ascend via stone stairs to the second floor, where stone windows offer glimpses of the city’s expanse.

Here, the largest and heaviest bell in China resides, a colossal copper creation standing 23 feet (7.02 meters) tall and weighing 63 tons. Its resonant, clear sound, produced by two 2-yard-long (2 meters) wooden logs, once echoed across Beijing, marking the hours with a timeless clarity.

South of the Bell Tower, 110 yards (91 meters) away, stands the Drum Tower, perched on a 13-foot-high (4 meters) stone and brick base. Slightly shorter than its counterpart at 153 feet (46.7 meters), it nonetheless exudes a commanding presence. The Drum Tower’s first floor now houses the China Committee for the Promotion of Minority Art, while the second floor serves as an exhibition area.

Historically, this tower contained one large drum and 24 smaller ones; today, only the large drum remains. The intricate rhythm of 108 tolls—three rounds of 18 quick beats followed by 18 slow beats—symbolized a year in ancient times, marking time with a profound significance.

The practice of using the bell and drum for timekeeping ceased after Pu Yi, the last emperor of China, left the Forbidden City. Yet, in a poignant revival of tradition, the bell’s melodious chime returned on New Year’s Eve in 1990, followed by the drum’s resonant beat on New Year’s Eve in 2001. Since January 1, 2002, the drum has been struck four times daily, each session lasting 15 minutes. On every New Year’s Eve, both the bell and drum are struck 108 times, sending a blessing to the people of Beijing and connecting the modern city with its ancient roots.

Throughout their storied history, the Bell and Drum Towers have witnessed the ebb and flow of Beijing’s fortunes. During the Yuan Dynasty, they stood behind the imperial palace, overlooking a bustling downtown district. By the Ming and Qing Dynasties, the area in front of the Drum Tower had become Beijing’s busiest shopping street. During the Republican Period, the space between the towers teemed with impoverished individuals, handicraft merchants, and snack vendors, creating a vibrant marketplace that drew people from all walks of life.

Today, despite being dwarfed by Beijing’s modern skyscrapers, the Bell and Drum Towers remain the tallest structures in their vicinity, offering breathtaking views of the city’s traditional hutong neighborhoods. The Bell Tower’s 360-degree panoramic view captivates visitors, while the Drum Tower features hourly drum performances that enthrall with their rhythmic precision. However, the ascent to these vantage points requires climbing about 70 steep steps, a challenge not recommended for those with mobility issues.

Between the towers lies a small square, a gathering place where local elders and children from the surrounding hutongs come together, especially in the evenings. Here, amidst the echoes of history, visitors can immerse themselves in the charming local atmosphere, often visiting the towers before or after exploring the narrow alleyways of the hutongs.

Wanfo Pagoda’s reputation for grandeur and beauty spread rapidly across Southeast China, earning it the prestigious title of “Number One Pagoda in Zhejiang.” Its towering presence, with multiple levels and exquisite decoration, made it a focal point in the region. However, during the Anti-Japanese War, the pagoda’s height rendered it a potential lookout point for enemy forces.

To prevent Japanese troops from exploiting its vantage, the pagoda was sadly demolished. Yet, in 1957, the uncovering of its underground chamber revealed 183 precious cultural relics, including the illustrious “Water Moon Guanyin,” now a national first-class cultural treasure.

In 2020, the Wanfo Pagoda was reconstructed, meticulously designed to reflect its Song Dynasty origins while incorporating modern engineering. The new structure standing 99.99 meters tall, boasts hexagonal cornices with nine exterior layers and eight inner layers. Built with a steel-concrete frame, it features traditional Song architectural elements such as caissons, moon-shaped beams, and ornate wall carvings.

This harmonious blend of ancient design and contemporary techniques has positioned Wanfo Pagoda as a benchmark for cultural and architectural excellence in central Zhejiang.

Inside the pagoda, over 7,000 Buddha niches and more than 3,700 brick carvings recreate the spiritual and artistic grandeur of the original structure. The first level houses the majestic Shakyamuni Buddha statue, accompanied by depictions of his ten great disciples. The floor, inlaid with various types of jade, showcases masterful mosaic craftsmanship.

Beneath the pagoda, the underground chamber spans over 1,900 square meters, resembling a small museum. It features murals illustrating Buddha’s life stories and intricately carved wood sculptures by Master Lu Guangzheng, blending Buddhist themes with local Jinhua elements.

This space not only honors the past but also educates visitors on the China’s rich cultural heritage.