Old Fort of Zanzibar
Zanzibar Region
The Old Fort of Zanzibar, locally known as Boma la Kale la Zanzibar, is the oldest building in Stone Town, the historic capital of Zanzibar. Originally constructed by the Portuguese in the 17th century, it was rebuilt by the Omanis in the 18th century, reflecting the island's layered colonial history. The fort features imposing high brown walls with merlons enclosing a courtyard that holds remnants of earlier structures, including a Portuguese church and an Omani fortification. Over the centuries, it served various roles such as a garrison, a prison, and a railway terminal during the early 20th century. Today, the Old Fort has been transformed into a lively cultural center, housing curio shops selling local art like tingatinga paintings, an open-air amphitheater for live music and dance performances, and a restaurant. It is also the main venue for major cultural events such as the Zanzibar International Film Festival and the Sauti za Busara music festival, making it a vibrant focal point of Zanzibar's cultural life and tourism.
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Astuce: Visitors should plan to explore the Old Fort in the late afternoon or early evening to enjoy the live music and dance performances in the open-air amphitheater. Purchasing tickets for major festivals like the Zanzibar International Film Festival in advance is recommended. The fort offers discount options for students and groups. Comfortable walking shoes are advised due to the historic stone surfaces.
Faits intéressants
- •The Old Fort is the oldest building in Stone Town, Zanzibar.
- •The fort contains remnants of a Portuguese church and Omani fortifications within its courtyard.
- •It served as the terminal for the Zanzibar railway between 1905 and 1928.
- •The amphitheater added in the 1990s hosts live cultural performances regularly.
- •The fort is the headquarters for the Zanzibar International Film Festival, one of Africa's largest cultural festivals.
Histoire
The Old Fort was originally built by the Portuguese in the 17th century as a defensive stronghold.
In the 18th century, it was rebuilt by the Omanis who controlled Zanzibar, adapting it for their military needs.
During the 19th century, it functioned as a garrison and prison.
In the early 20th century, the fort served as a depot and terminal for the Zanzibar railway connecting Stone Town to Bububu.
A new guardhouse was constructed in 1947, later used as a ladies' club.
The 1990s saw the addition of an amphitheater, transforming the fort into a cultural venue.
Guide du lieu
Fort Walls and Merlons17th-18th century
The high brown walls with distinctive merlons form the fort's defensive perimeter, showcasing typical 17th and 18th-century military architecture.
Inner Courtyard17th-18th century
The courtyard contains archaeological remnants of earlier buildings, including a Portuguese church and an Omani fortification, offering insight into the fort's layered history.
Open-Air Amphitheatre1990s
Added in the 1990s, the amphitheater hosts live dance and music performances, becoming a vibrant cultural hub for locals and tourists alike.
Contact
Téléphone: 024 223 8516