Location:

The old Fort (In Swahili: Ngome Kongwe) is also known as Arab Fort for they are the builders and by other names, is a fortification It is the oldest building and a major attraction  of Stone Town. Located on the main seafront, adjacent building the House of Wonder (former palace of the Sultan of Zanzibar), and facing the Forodhani Gardens

History:

It was used as a garrison and prison in the 19th century, and as a terminal of the Zanzibar railways.

A new guardhouse was built in 1947 and used as the ladies’ club, later an amphitheatre was added.

It was later used as a prison and as barracks; it was also used as a depot during the construction of the railway that connected Stone Town to the village of Bububu.

The fort has a square of high, brown walls with merlons protecting an inner courtyard

It is now the headquarters of the Zanzibar international film festival.

Attraction:

Courtyard as been adapted to serve as a cultural centre with curio shops selling tourist-oriented merchandise

Open-air amphitheatre where live dance and music shows are held most evenings, a restaurant, and a tourist information desk.

Main venue used for large events such as Zanzibar International Film Festival and the Sauti za Busara.