Ngome Kongwe, also known as the Old Fort or Arab Fort, stands beside Forodhani Gardens on Stone Town’s historic waterfront. Omani rulers built the fortress around the turn of the 18th century after ending Portuguese control of Zanzibar, making it one of the oldest surviving structures in the city. Its massive coral-stone walls, crenellated parapets and square towers form a rugged contrast with the ornate façades nearby. Inside, the former defensive enclosure has become a cultural space with craft shops and an open-air amphitheatre used for performances and festival events. The weathered ramparts, arched entrances and shaded courtyard provide strong textures and geometric compositions, while the exterior walls are especially recognizable against the movement and evening light of Forodhani.
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