Anglican Cathedral | Zanzibar

Anglican Cathedral (Christ Church Cathedral) – Zanzibar’s Historical and Religious Landmark

The Anglican Cathedral, also known as Christ Church Cathedral, is one of the most prominent historical and architectural landmarks in Stone Town, Zanzibar. Located near the Forodhani Gardens, this cathedral is deeply intertwined with the island's colonial history and the abolition of the slave trade. Its construction and role as a Christian center of worship represent a significant chapter in the cultural and religious development of Zanzibar.

Quick Facts

• Name: Christ Church Cathedral (Anglican Cathedral)
• Location: Stone Town, Zanzibar, Tanzania
• Type: Anglican cathedral, historic landmark
• Date of Completion: 1903
• Architectural Style: Gothic Revival and Arabian influences
• Opening Hours: 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM, daily
• Entry Fee: Around $5 USD per person (may vary)
• Best Time to Visit: The cathedral is open year-round, but the morning services and peaceful hours are ideal for reflection and sightseeing.

Historical Background

1. The Role of Christianity in Zanzibar

• Zanzibar was historically a center of the East African slave trade, and the Anglican Church played a pivotal role in abolishing slavery on the island. The Christ Church Cathedral was built to commemorate the visit of Dr. David Livingstone, a Scottish missionary and explorer, who was known for his advocacy against the slave trade.
• The cathedral stands on the site where Zanzibar's last slave market once operated, symbolizing a significant shift from the slave trade to Christianity and freedom.

2. Construction of the Cathedral

• The construction of the Anglican Cathedral began in 1873 under the direction of the Church Missionary Society (CMS). The church was completed in 1903 during the British colonial rule, and it was intended to serve as a symbol of Christian influence on the island.
• The building was designed by Sir John Jackson, who was influenced by the Gothic Revival style, though the design also incorporated local Arabian elements, making it a unique blend of European and African architectural traditions.

3. The Last Slave Market

• The cathedral’s location is of immense historical significance. It was built on the former site of Zanzibar's slave market, one of the largest in East Africa during the 19th century.
• In 1873, the British government intervened to end the slave trade in Zanzibar, and the construction of the Anglican Cathedral marked the Christian missionary effort to both commemorate the abolition of slavery and encourage religious conversion.

Architectural Features of Christ Church Cathedral

1. Gothic Revival Style

• The cathedral was designed in the Gothic Revival style, which is evident in its pointed arches, intricate stained glass windows, and tall, vaulted ceilings.
• The bell tower is one of the most striking features of the cathedral and was a prominent feature in the skyline of Stone Town upon its completion.

2. Stained Glass Windows

• The cathedral is renowned for its beautiful stained glass windows, which were donated by the British Church Missionary Society. The windows feature religious imagery, including scenes from the Bible, and are considered a highlight of the church's design.

3. The Altar and Interior

• Inside the cathedral, the altar area is grand and ornate, featuring a large wooden altar and a series of religious statues.
• The interior of the cathedral is spacious and has a calm, serene atmosphere, with an elegant wooden ceiling and marble flooring that adds to its sanctity.

4. The Memorial to Dr. David Livingstone

• The memorial to Dr. David Livingstone is a key feature inside the cathedral. Livingstone was instrumental in the abolition of the slave trade in East Africa, and this memorial honors his legacy in Zanzibar.
• The memorial includes a stone tablet with an inscription commemorating his efforts in promoting Christianity and ending the East African slave trade.

The Christ Church Cathedral Museum (Slave Chambers)

1. The Slave Chambers

• Beneath the cathedral, there are slave chambers that were originally used to hold enslaved people before they were sold at the nearby market. These chambers are an eerie reminder of Zanzibar’s dark history of slavery.
• The museum located inside the cathedral now serves to educate visitors about the history of the slave trade and its abolition in the region. The rooms contain artifacts, photographs, and historical records that highlight the harsh realities of the slave trade and the role of Christian missionaries in advocating for freedom.

2. The Museum’s Role in Preservation

• The museum in the cathedral is also a space for reflection on the legacy of colonialism and Christianity in Africa, as well as the island's role in the global slave trade.
• The slave chambers and the information provided help visitors understand how Zanzibar played a crucial role in slavery in the Indian Ocean region.

Why Visit Christ Church Cathedral?

1. Historical Significance

• The cathedral is a living memorial to the abolition of slavery in Zanzibar and East Africa. By visiting, you not only learn about the cathedral's religious significance but also gain a deeper understanding of Zanzibar’s historical and social evolution.

2. Unique Architecture

• The Gothic Revival and Arabian-inspired architecture offer a unique visual experience in Stone Town, where most other buildings are influenced by Arabic and Swahili styles.

3. The Slave Chambers and Museum

• The slave chambers beneath the cathedral provide a poignant reminder of Zanzibar’s darker history. It is a chance for visitors to reflect on the past and gain a better understanding of the island’s colonial and slave trade history.

4. Peaceful Sanctuary

• The cathedral offers a serene atmosphere, making it an excellent spot for quiet reflection or simply appreciating its beauty. It is an important center for worship and is still an active Anglican church today.

5. Educational Experience

• For history buffs, the cathedral is an excellent place to learn about Christianity's role in Africa, Zanzibar’s history, and the story of slavery in the Indian Ocean region.

Nearby Attractions

• House of Wonders: A short walk from the cathedral, the House of Wonders is a museum that showcases Zanzibar's history and culture.
• Forodhani Gardens: Located nearby, this is a popular spot for visitors to enjoy local food and watch the sunset.
• The Old Fort: Another historical site that was built to defend Zanzibar from invaders.
• Slave Chambers (next to the cathedral): Visit the adjacent slave chambers to further understand the region’s history.

Visiting Information

• Location: Stone Town, Zanzibar, Tanzania
• Opening Hours: 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM, daily
• Entry Fee: Around $5 USD for adults, children often pay a lower fee
• Activities: Historical exploration, church services, photography, museum visit