When visiting Stone Town, you cannot miss the Old Fort. It’s history tells the story of Zanzibar in a nutshell.
Old Fort is one of the oldest buildings in Stone Town, originally built by the Portuguese in the 17th century and later re-built by the Omanis in the 18th century. It is free to visit, and cultural festivals and happenings are often organised in the inner courts of the fort.
First used by the Portuguese
The location of the Old Fort was first used by the Portuguese, who came to the islands in the 1500’s. Very little remains of the original structure, but ruins include evidence of an old church.
Turned into an Arab Fort
The Old Fort got it’s current form when the Omanese came to defend Zanzibar against the Portuguese. This was in the late 1600’s. The Omanese completely re-built the fortification.
Used as a Zanzibar train station
During the Sultanate days and the British rule, there was a short train connection from Stone Town to Bububu village. The Old Fort was used as a terminal. The train run from 1905 until 1930.
The cultural center of Stone Town
In the 1990’s the Old Fort became officially a cultural center, and an amphitheater was built. Nowadays it hosts festivals like Sauti za Busara and Zanzibar International FIlm Festivals
What does Ngome Kongwe mean?
The Old Fort has manby naims – it is also called the Arab Fort and in Swahili, the name is Ngome Kongwe. This simply means The Old Fort.
Old Fort today
Cultural happenings
Big festivals, small festivals, fashion shows, movie nights, weddings… The Old Fort really functions as a great forum for many different cultural events! Check out the music festival Sauti za Busara in February and Zanzibar International FIlm Festivals in July.
Shopping & food
There are small shops at the fort, mostly selling clothes & art. There is also a restaurant near to the amphitheatre. In the further-most towers you can find and art gallery and in the last one, a Zanzibar Urban Adventures office for fun tours!
Opening Hours
The Old Fort front office is open every day from 8 am until 6 pm. For events and bar nights, the entrance is open longer. The shops & offices inside have their own hours, but never past the official opening hours. Old Fort entrance is free of charge.
Tours that include a visit to Zanzibar Old Fort
Most of our sharing tours start in front of the Old Fort, giving you an opportunity to step inside the building for a moment before tour starting time. We also have a few tours that include the Old Fort in the tour itinerary.
Stone Town Tour
A walking tour to the history and present of Stone Town. This atmospheric and mystical town is the cultural and historical heart of Zanzibar.
Made in Zanzibar
A tour to the culture, music and handicrafts of Zanzibar. Not just to see – to experience it all with your own hands! In cooperation with Zanzibar Urban Adventures.
Latest news from Zanzibar
Read more about Zanzibar, travelling to Zanzibar and cultural aspect of Zanzibari life.
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