A top view of cinnamon sticks in a bowl on a wooden board with a napkin, creating a warm and inviting still life.

East Africa’s spice secret

Ancient Somali city‑states held a cinnamon monopoly, thriving on Red Sea trade beyond Roman reach.

Africa: East Africa’s Cinnamon Secret

Woman in hijab taking a selfie by the sea in Qandala, Somalia.

How it worked

Merchants linked the Horn to India’s spices and the wider Red Sea world.

Africa: East Africa’s Cinnamon Secret

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