Lamu

Lamu stands on an island off the East African coast, overlooking a sheltered channel lined with mangroves. Its narrow streets wind between coral-stone houses, mosques and carved wooden doors, reflecting a long tradition of Swahili urban life. Sailors and merchants have connected the town to the mainland and to ports across the Indian Ocean for centuries.

Lamu grew in strength as it competed with neighbouring towns in the archipelago. In 1813 a force from Pate and Mombasa sailed against it, but was defeated near Shela. Wary of further attack, Lamu sought protection from the Omani ruler Sayyid Said. A garrison was installed and a substantial fort completed in 1821, marking a new phase in the town's relations with the powers of the coast.