Fodor's Expert Review Old Fort

Built by the Portuguese in 1560, this bastioned fortress is the oldest structure in Stone Town. It withstood an attack from Arabs in 1754. It was later used as a jail, and prisoners who were sentenced to death met their ends here. It has undergone extensive renovation and today is headquarters for many cultural organizations, including the Zanzibar International Film Festival and the Jahazi Literary and Jazz Festival. Performances of traditional dance and music are staged here during the week. Check the office for details