Brief History
Lamu Old Town is the oldest and best preserved Swahili settlement in East Africa. Trade between the East African coast and Arabia, Persia and India, began as far back as the 9th century and Lamu itself dates back to at least the 12th century. This deep-rooted interaction influenced the coastal culture and the subsequent development of a language named Swahili (derived from the Arabic word sahil meaning 'coast').
By the 14th Century, Lamu already existed as a rich trading city-state, exporting ivory, timber, amber and spices, while importing luxury goods such as porcelain and carpets from across the Indian Ocean .
In the 17th and early 18th centuries, the authority of the Sultan of Oman increased in the region and Lamu prospered. Lamu's inhabitants and those of Oman built and rebuilt most of the traditional stone houses and mosques during this time. However by the end of the 18th century Lamu was in decline as the main trading activities shifted to Mombasa. This was due to the large development of Mombasa port.
During the 19th century disagreements with Pate lead to the construction of the Lamu Fort. The Fort was completed in 1821 with the help of the new Sultan of Oman. At this time Lamu was also once again acquiring substantial wealth, trading goods from mainland plantations with the Sultan of Oman, who lived in Zanzibar.
Until the end of the 19th century the population of Lamu consisted of a large number of slaves. With the abolishment of slavery in East Africa at the end of the 19th century, Lamu's source of cheap labour was lost. It was in part because of this that Lamu Old Town once again fell into decline, becoming a minor, local harbour. However it was also this remoteness which allowed Lamu's remarkable architecture, traditional values and ways of life to be preserved.
Most recently, in December 2001, Lamu Old Town was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage Site list. As a listed site the Old Town is protected by international law from anything that could harm or destroy its unique structure. The inscription was completed for the following reasons:
1) The town's buildings physically show us how important human interactions have come together over hundreds of years, to create a distinct culture.
2) The town is the best example of the growth and decline of East Africa's seaports, and this significant stage of human history.
3) The town has an important religious function in the region. It continues to be a significant centre for education in Islamic and Swahili culture.
Lamu's exceptional architecture and welcoming people are testament to its long history of diverse cultural influence. The town is once again prospering with an influx of new peoples from around the world, here to experience everything the Old Town has to offer.