In Mombasa County, a short distance from the Likoni Ferry along Mama Ngina Drive, lies an ancient fort known as St. Joseph’s Fort. This historical site predates the famous Fort Jesus, with some claims suggesting it existed before Vasco da Gama arrived in Mombasa in the 15th century. Despite being neglected for a long time, the fort has recently gained attention from the Kenyan government and the National Museums of Kenya, thanks to a significant archaeological discovery.
Rediscovering the Forgotten Fort
The renewed interest in St. Joseph’s Fort was sparked by the discovery of a 13th-century mosque by trench diggers working on Mama Ngina Drive. This find has prompted historians and archaeologists to delve deeper into the fort’s past. The origins of St. Joseph’s Fort and its initial name remain shrouded in mystery, but intriguing stories have emerged about its builders and early inhabitants.
The Early Turkish Settlement
According to local lore, an early Turkish regiment settled in Mombasa and coexisted peacefully with the local Zimba tribe. Faced with the threat of a Portuguese invasion, the Turks constructed the fort as a defensive measure. Unfortunately, the Portuguese forces eventually overpowered the Turkish regiment but spared the fort. They expanded it, adding a chapel and an underground passageway, and renamed it St. Joseph’s Fort. The fort’s original name, however, has been lost to history.
The Architectural Significance
The fort’s construction is a testament to the architectural prowess of its builders. Its strategic location near the Likoni Ferry and the enhancements made by the Portuguese, including the chapel and passageway, highlight its historical importance. The recent discovery of the 13th-century mosque further underscores the area’s rich cultural heritage.
Government and Archaeological Efforts
The Kenyan government, alongside the National Museums of Kenya, has taken an active interest in preserving and studying St. Joseph’s Fort. Efforts are underway to uncover more about its past and integrate it into the broader narrative of Mombasa’s history. These initiatives aim to transform the fort from a neglected ruin into a significant historical site that attracts both researchers and tourists.
Conclusion
St. Joseph’s Fort stands as a fascinating piece of Mombasa’s historical puzzle. Its origins may be cloaked in mystery, but the fort’s enduring presence and the recent archaeological finds provide a tantalizing glimpse into the region’s rich past. As efforts to study and preserve the site continue, St. Joseph’s Fort promises to reveal more about the ancient civilizations that once thrived on the Kenyan coast.
