PATTA, or PATA, a town of Africa, on an island off the E. coast, in S. Lat. 2. 8., E. Long. 41. It is separated from the mainland by a narrow channel, navigable only for boats; and seems to have been formerly a much more important place than at present. It is composed of scattered huts of an oblong form, built of stakes and reeds plastered over with mud. The Portuguese formerly built a castle here; but they were driven out by the natives, who subsequently became subjects of the Imam of Muscat. They wear long white garments and white embroidered turbans, and are armed with sabres and daggers. A considerable coasting trade is carried on. Pop. about 4000.