Zaria is one of the oldest cities in northern Nigeria, the historic capital of the Hausa kingdom of Zazzau. Its traditional ruler, the Emir of Zazzau, is among the most senior emirs in the country.
The old walled city holds the Emir's palace, historic mosques and neighbourhoods of traditional Hausa architecture. Outside the walls, Zaria is a major university town, home to one of the largest universities in Africa.
Top things to do in Zaria
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Explore the old walled city
Birnin Zaria, the old city, was enclosed by long earthen walls, parts of which and some of their gates survive. Its lanes are lined with mud-brick houses decorated in Hausa style.
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See the Emir's palace
The palace of the Emir of Zazzau is a large traditional compound with decorated facades and gateways, a fine example of Hausa palace architecture.
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Visit the Friday Mosque
Zaria's historic Friday Mosque, built in the nineteenth century in traditional style, is admired for its earthen vaulted interior and is one of the most important mosques in the region.
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Watch the Zaria Durbar
During Eid, horsemen in colourful robes ride in procession to salute the Emir of Zazzau, with drummers and trumpeters, in one of northern Nigeria's historic durbars.
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Discover Zaria's art heritage
The university's art school in Zaria became famous in the late 1950s for a group of students who shaped modern Nigerian art by drawing on local traditions. Exhibitions on campus continue that tradition.
Festivals and culture
The Zaria Durbar during Eid is the city's grandest celebration. University events, weddings and cultural programmes fill the rest of the calendar.
Food to try
Try tuwo shinkafa with miyan kuka, masa, kosai, danwake, suya, kilishi and fura da nono.
Best time to visit
November to February is dry and cooler. March to May is very hot. Plan around Eid for the durbar.
Getting around
Taxis, tricycles and motorcycle taxis cover the city. Zaria is about an hour from Kaduna by road, and the old city is best explored on foot with a local guide.
Questions about Zaria
What is Zaria known for?
Zaria is known as the historic capital of the Zazzau kingdom, for its old walled city and Emir's palace, its durbar, and its large university.
How far is Zaria from Kaduna?
About 80 km, usually around an hour by road.
How do I find events in Zaria?
Browse upcoming concerts, campus events, festivals and free events in Zaria on Shows.ng, and filter by today, this weekend or this month.
