Old Fort — Attraction in Shangani

The Arab Fort (also called the old fort, and by its local name Ngome Kongwe) is next to the House of Wonders. It is a large building, with high, dark-brown walls topped by castellated battlements. It was built between 1698 and 1701 by the Busaidi group of Omani Arabs, who had gained control of Zanzibar in 1698, following almost two centuries of Portuguese occupation. The fort was used as a defence against the Portuguese and against a rival Omani group, the Mazrui, who occupied Mombasa at that time.

The fort was constructed by the Busaidi Omani Arabs on the site of a Portuguese church which had been built between 1598 and 1612. In the main courtyard, remnants of the old church can still be seen built into the inside wall. In the 19th century the fort was used as a prison, and criminals were executed or punished here, at a place just outside the east wall. The Swahili word gereza, meaning prison, is thought to be derived from the Portuguese word ireja, meaning church.

In the early 20th century, the fort was also used as a depot for the railway line which ran from Zanzibar Town to Bububu. In 1949 it was rebuilt and the main courtyard used as a ladies' tennis club, but after the 1964 Revolution it fell into disuse.

Today, the fort has been renovated, and is open to visitors. It is possible to reach the top of the battlements and go onto the towers on the western side. In 1994 a section was turned into an open-air theatre. The development was imaginative yet sympathetic to the overall design and feel of the original building: seating is in amphitheatre style, and the fort's outer walls and the House of Wonders form a natural backdrop. The theatre is used for performances of contemporary and traditional music, drama and dance. The fort also houses a tourist information desk, with details on performances in the amphitheatre and other events around town, plus a selection of books for sale and a range of tour company leaflets to browse. There are also several spice and craft shops, a pleasant café, and remarkably some very clean public toilets. And don't miss the Tower Workshop in the west tower, where local artists create and display their works (more details are given in the Shopping section). Even if historical ruins don't interest you, the Fort is well worth a visit. With so many attractions and facilities, it's easy to spend quite a...

The old Fort in Zanzibar, also known as the Arab Fort or Ngome Kongwe, is a historical and architectural landmark located in Stone Town, Zanzibar City, Tanzania. Here are some key points about it:

Historical Background: The fort was built by the Omanis in the late 17th century (1698) after they had driven out the Portuguese. Its primary purpose was to defend against the Portuguese and any other potential invaders. The fort was constructed on the site of a Portuguese chapel and garrison.

Architecture: The fort is characterized by its large, sturdy stone walls and defensive towers. Its design reflects traditional Omani military architecture. Inside, there is a large, open courtyard, which originally served as a prison and later was used for military barracks and other administrative purposes.

Cultural Significance: The Old Fort is one of Stone Town's most important cultural sites and is a UNESCO World Heritage site. It hosts a variety of cultural events, including the Zanzibar International Film Festival (ZIFF), music performances, and other community events.

Modern Use: Today, the fort is a popular tourist attraction. Visitors can explore its historical architecture, shop at a number of small shops and stalls selling local crafts and souvenirs, and enjoy performances at the amphitheater within its walls. The site has been adapted to serve contemporary cultural purposes while preserving its historical integrity.

Restoration and Preservation: Efforts have been made to preserve and restore the Old Fort to maintain its historical and cultural significance. These efforts are part of broader initiatives to preserve the heritage of Stone Town.

The Old Fort remains a testament to Zanzibar's rich history, blending African, Arab, Indian, and European influences over...

Vasco da gama visit in 1498 marked the beginning of European influence. In 1503 or 1504, Zanzibar became part of the Portuguese empire Captain Ruy Lourenço Ravasco Marques landed and demanded and received tribute from the sultan, in exchange for peace.  Zanzibar remained a possession of Portugal for almost two centuries. It initially became part of the Portuguese province of Arabia and Ethiopia and was administered by a governor general. Around 1571, Zanzibar became part of the western division of the Portuguese empire and was administered from   It appears, however, that the Portuguese did not closely administer Zanzibar. The first English ship to visit Unguja, the Edward Bonaventure in 1591, found that there was no Portuguese fort or garrison. The extent of their occupation was a trade depot where produce was purchased and collected for shipment to Mozambique. "In other respects, the affairs of the island were managed by the local 'king', the predecessor of the Mwinyi Mkuu of Dunga.  This hands-off approach ended when Portugal established a fort on Pemba Island around 1635 in response to the Sultan of Mombasa's slaughter of Portuguese residents several years earlier. Portugal had long considered Pemba to be a troublesome launching point for rebellions in Mombasa against Portuguese rule The precise origins of the sultans of Unguja are uncertain. However, their capital at unguja ukuu is believed to have been an extensive town. Possibly constructed by locals, it was composed mainly of...