Lamu Fort

Lamu Fort
Lamu, Kenya
Tower of Lamu Fort
Lamu Fort
Coordinates	2°16′10″S 40°54′08″E / 2.269346°S 40.90218°E / -2.269346; 40.90218
Height	2-story
Site information
Open to the public	Yes
Condition	Restored
Site history
Built	c. 1813 (1813)

Lamu Fort is a fortress in the town of Lamu in northeastern Kenya. Originally situated on the waterfront, the fort today is located in a central position in the town, about 70 metres (230 ft) from the main jetty on the shore.

Lamu Fort was built between 1813 and 1821 with Omani assistance. Initially it provided a base from which the Omanis consolidated their control of the East African coast but the town later lost its economic importance. During the British colonial period, and after the independence of Kenya, the fort was used as a prison. Today it houses an environmental museum and library, and is often used for community events.