Old Fort: The Heartbeat of Stone Town

• HelloJambo
  [jahm-boh]
• GoodbyeKwaheri
  [kwah-heh-ree]
• YesNdio
  [n-dee-oh]
• NoHapana
  [hah-pah-nah]
• Please/You're welcomeTafadhali
  [tah-fah-dah-lee]
• Thank youAsante
  [ah-sahn-teh]
• Excuse me/SorrySamahani
  [sah-mah-hah-nee]
• How are you?Habari gani?
  [hah-bah-ree gah-nee]
• Fine. And you?Nzuri. Na wewe?
  [n-zoo-ree. nah weh-weh]
• Do you speak English?Unazungumza Kiingereza?
  [oo-nah-zoo-ngoom-zah kee-een-geh-reh-zah]
• I don't understandSielewi
  [see-leh-wee]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseNingependa kuona menyu, tafadhali
  [nee-ngeh-pehn-dah kwoh-nah meh-nyoo, tah-fah-dah-lee]
• I don't eat meatSili nyama
  [see-lee nyah-mah]
• Cheers!Afya!
  [ah-fyah]
• I would like to pay, pleaseNingependa kulipa, tafadhali
  [nee-ngeh-pehn-dah koo-lee-pah, tah-fah-dah-lee]

• Help!Msaada!
  [msah-ah-dah]
• Go away!Nenda zako!
  [nen-dah zah-koh]
• Call the Police!Piga simu polisi!
  [pee-gah see-moo poh-lee-see]
• Call a doctor!Piga simu daktari!
  [pee-gah see-moo dahk-tah-ree]
• I'm lostNimepotea
  [nee-meh-poh-teh-ah]
• I'm illNinaumwa
  [nee-nah-oom-wah]

• I'd like to buy...Ningependa kununua...
  [nee-ngeh-pehn-dah koo-noo-nwah]
• I'm just lookingNatazama tu
  [nah-tah-zah-mah too]
• How much is it?Bei ni kiasi gani?
  [bay nee kyah-see gah-nee]
• That's too expensiveHiyo ni ghali sana
  [hee-yoh nee gah-lee sah-nah]
• Can you lower the price?Unaweza kupunguza bei?
  [oo-nah-weh-zah koo-poon-goo-zah bay]

• What time is it?Saa ngapi?
  [sah-ah ngah-pee]
• It's one o'clockSaa moja
  [sah-ah moh-jah]
• Half past (10)Saa moja na nusu
  [sah-ah moh-jah nah noo-soo]
• MorningAsubuhi
  [ah-soo-boo-hee]
• AfternoonMchana
  [m-chah-nah]
• EveningJioni
  [joh-nee]
• YesterdayJana
  [jah-nah]
• TodayLeo
  [leh-oh]
• TomorrowKesho
  [keh-shoh]
• 1Moja
  [moh-jah]
• 2Mbili
  [m-bee-lee]
• 3Tatu
  [tah-too]
• 4Nne
  [n-neh]
• 5Tano
  [tah-noh]
• 6Sita
  [see-tah]
• 7Saba
  [sah-bah]
• 8Nane
  [nah-neh]
• 9Tisa
  [tee-sah]
• 10Kumi
  [koo-mee]

• Where's a/the...?Iko wapi...?
  [ee-koh wah-pee]
• What's the address?Anwani ni ipi?
  [ahn-wah-nee nee ee-pee]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Unaweza kunionyesha (kwenye ramani)?
  [oo-nah-weh-zah koo-nee-oh-nyeh-shah (kweh-neh rah-mah-nee)]
• When's the next (bus)?Basi lifuata lini?
  [bah-see lee-foo-ah-tah lee-nee]
• A ticket (to ....)Tiketi (kwenda ...)
  [tee-keh-tee (kwehn-dah)]

The Old Fort, known locally as the 'Ngome Kongwe', was built in the late 17th century by Omani Arabs as a defensive structure against the Portuguese. Its establishment marked a significant shift in the balance of power in the region, as the Omanis sought to protect their interests in the spice trade and to assert their control over the island of Zanzibar. The fort was constructed using coral stone, a material abundant in the area, which reflects the architectural style of the time.

The late 19th century brought turmoil to the region as European colonial powers increased their influence. The Old Fort played a crucial role during the Anglo-Zanzibar War in 1896, the shortest recorded war in history. The fort's strategic position allowed it to be a focal point for defense against British forces, who aimed to establish control over Zanzibar. Following the conflict, the fort was largely abandoned, marking a significant transition in its purpose.

In the 20th century, the Old Fort saw a revival of purpose when it was transformed into a cultural center. The fort now hosts various events, including the Zanzibar International Film Festival, showcasing the region's rich artistic heritage. Restoration efforts have preserved its structure, allowing visitors to experience the blend of history and culture that characterizes Stone Town.

The design of the Old Fort reflects a fusion of architectural influences, including Arab, Persian, Indian, and European styles. Its robust walls and towers provide insight into the military architecture of the time. The fort's architecture is emblematic of Zanzibar's historical role as a crossroads of trade and cultural exchange, making it a pivotal landmark within Stone Town.

Today, the Old Fort stands as a symbol of resilience and cultural identity in Zanzibar. It attracts tourists from around the world, eager to explore its history and enjoy performances by local artists. The fort is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognized for its historical and cultural importance, further solidifying its role as a centerpiece of Stone Town’s legacy.

Old Fort is located in the heart of Stone Town, easily accessible from various neighborhoods within the city. If you're coming from the airport, you can take a taxi which is the most convenient option, taking approximately 20 minutes. From other neighborhoods like Forodhani Gardens or the Darajani Market, Old Fort is within a 10-15 minute walking distance.

Old Fort is a compact area, and walking is the best way to explore its attractions. Bicycles can be rented from local shops if you prefer cycling. Taxis are available if you need to travel further, but within Old Fort, walking allows you to soak in the historic atmosphere.

While Old Fort is generally safe for tourists, petty crime such as pickpocketing can occur, especially in crowded areas. Be cautious around the Old Soko (market) and avoid walking alone at night. It's advisable to keep your belongings secure and stay alert to your surroundings.

In case of emergency, dial 112 for police or ambulance services in Tanzania. There are local clinics and pharmacies in Stone Town for minor health issues. It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers emergencies. Keep the contact information of your country's embassy handy.

Fashion: Do wear lightweight, modest clothing suitable for the tropical climate. Avoid beachwear in non-beach areas. Religion: Do respect local customs, especially when visiting mosques. Cover your head and shoulders. Public Transport: Do use registered taxis and avoid unmarked ones. Don't hail a taxi on the street; instead, arrange one through your hotel. Greetings: Do greet locals with 'Jambo' (hello) and a smile. Don't assume English will be understood by everyone. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes like Zanzibari biryani. Don't drink tap water; opt for bottled water instead.

To experience Old Fort like a local, engage with street vendors for authentic snacks and crafts. Visit the local art galleries and workshops to appreciate the vibrant culture. Attend any cultural events or festivals happening in the Old Fort area if your visit coincides with them, as they offer an insight into Zanzibari traditions and arts.