Kampong Ayer

Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei

The world's largest water village, home to up to 30,000 people in stilt houses over the Brunei River. The traditional center of the Brunei Sultanate — one of the oldest continuously ruling Islamic dynasties in the world.

Historical Context

The Brunei Sultanate adopted Islam in the 15th century and became one of the most powerful states in Borneo. Kampong Ayer was its traditional capital, where the entire court and much of the population lived in interconnected stilt structures over the river.