Daljirka Dahsoon (Tomb of the Unknown Soldier)

Daljirka Dahsoon — "the unknown soldier" — is a national monument honouring the soldiers who gave their lives for Somalia. Its tall white obelisk rises above a plaza in central Mogadishu, flanked by the blue Somali flag.

The monument is where the city comes together: crowds gather here to celebrate Independence Day (1 July), Eid and other national occasions, and colourful murals nearby celebrate Somali history and culture.

Visiting tips

• Visit on a national holiday to see the square at its most festive.
• It is a place of remembrance: be respectful when taking photos.
• Combine it with a drive past the National Theatre and the old centre.