Zanzibar (Stone Town) | Zanzibar

Zanzibar – Stone Town

Stone Town, the historic heart of Zanzibar City, is one of the most fascinating and culturally rich destinations in Tanzania. Known for its unique blend of Arab, Persian, Indian, and European influences, Stone Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that offers a glimpse into Zanzibar's past as a key center for the spice trade, slave trading, and a crossroads of global cultures.

Quick Facts

• Location: Zanzibar Island, Tanzania, off the east coast of Africa.
• UNESCO Status: World Heritage Site (since 2000).
• Best Time to Visit: June to October (dry season).
• Significance: A hub for Zanzibar's rich history, architecture, culture, and trade. Known for its winding narrow streets, beautiful Swahili architecture, and historic sites.
• Entry Fees: There may be small entrance fees to certain historic sites, but general access to Stone Town is free.

Key Attractions in Stone Town

1. House of Wonders (Beit-al-Ajaib)

• One of Stone Town's most iconic landmarks, the House of Wonders was built in the late 19th century and was once the palace of the Sultans of Zanzibar.
• The building is notable for its distinctive architecture featuring a large verandah and a large balcony that offers panoramic views of the town and the Indian Ocean.
• It also houses a museum showcasing Zanzibar's cultural and historical heritage, including exhibitions on Swahili culture, sultanate history, and Zanzibar's role in the spice trade.

2. Old Fort (Ngome Kongwe)

• The Old Fort is another prominent feature of Stone Town, built by the Omanis in the late 17th century to defend Zanzibar from Portuguese invasion.
• Today, the fort is a cultural hub with performances, art exhibitions, and craft stalls. The courtyard is often used for local events and performances, giving it a lively atmosphere.
• The fort is a perfect place to explore the town's defensive architecture and to enjoy panoramic views from the top.

3. Sultan's Palace (Beit al-Sahel)

• The Sultan's Palace, located near the seafront, was the residence of the Sultans of Zanzibar in the 19th century.
• It now houses a museum dedicated to the history of the Zanzibar Sultanate, with exhibits detailing the life of the royal family, the Sultans' rule, and Zanzibar’s legacy as a center of trade.
• The palace is particularly interesting for those wanting to learn more about the region's royal history and Zanzibar's influence in the Indian Ocean world.

4. The Slave Market and Anglican Cathedral

• The Slave Market in Stone Town is a poignant reminder of Zanzibar’s role in the East African slave trade, which took place from the late 18th century to the mid-19th century.
• The site, where slaves were bought and sold, is now home to the Anglican Cathedral of Christ Church, which was built in 1873 on the site of the original slave trading post.
• The cathedral’s alter is located where slaves were once shackled and is an important historical and emotional site for visitors interested in Zanzibar’s slave trade history.
• The adjacent museum offers exhibitions on the history of slavery in the region.

5. Forodhani Gardens

• Located along the waterfront, the Forodhani Gardens is a popular gathering spot for both locals and tourists. It is especially famous for its vibrant night market where visitors can enjoy a variety of local foods, such as Zanzibar pizza, seafood, and grilled meats.
• The gardens are beautifully lit at night and provide a great place to relax while enjoying the views of the Indian Ocean.

6. The Old Dispensary

• The Old Dispensary is an elegant building that was once a medical clinic for the people of Zanzibar. Built in the late 19th century, it is a prime example of Zanzibar’s eclectic architectural style that blends Arab, Indian, and European influences.
• The building is beautifully decorated with intricate carvings and features large wooden balconies. It now houses a museum that displays historical artifacts, and it offers a glimpse into the role of medicine and healing in the past.

7. Hamamni Persian Baths

• The Hamamni Persian Baths are a reminder of the Persian influence in Zanzibar. Built in the early 1900s, the baths were a luxurious retreat for the wealthy, with separate bathing areas for men and women.
• Although no longer in use, the baths are a fascinating site, showcasing the elaborate bathing culture in Zanzibar’s history. Today, visitors can explore the ruins and learn about the role of public baths in the daily lives of the town’s elite.

Walking Through Stone Town

One of the most rewarding experiences in Stone Town is simply wandering through its narrow alleys and exploring the unique architecture. Here’s what you’ll find:

1. Swahili Architecture

• The Swahili architecture of Stone Town is one of the town’s main attractions, with large wooden doors, intricate carvings, and balconies that reflect the town’s historical fusion of Arab, Indian, Persian, and European styles.
• The houses are built close together, creating a maze-like feel in the heart of the town. This creates an intimate, charming atmosphere that transports you back to centuries ago.

2. Markets and Craft Stalls

• Throughout Stone Town, you will find a variety of market stalls selling local handicrafts, including woven baskets, carvings, jewelry, and spices. Zanzibar’s spice trade is world-famous, and many shops offer spices like cloves, cardamom, and nutmeg.
• The Zanzibar spice tour, where visitors can learn about the history and cultivation of Zanzibar’s famous spices, is a popular tour outside of Stone Town.

Cultural Experience in Stone Town

Stone Town offers a rich cultural experience where visitors can enjoy the following:

• Music: Zanzibar is famous for its Taarab music, a unique genre blending Arabic, Indian, and African influences. Visitors may catch live performances or hear it playing from local cafes.
• Cuisine: Zanzibar has a rich culinary history, with dishes that feature spices, seafood, and rice. Must-try dishes include Zanzibar pizza, biriyani, and seafood curry.
• Cultural Festivals: Stone Town hosts several festivals throughout the year, such as the Sauti za Busara music festival and the Zanzibar International Film Festival.

How to Get to Stone Town

• By Air: The nearest airport to Stone Town is Zanzibar International Airport (ZNZ), which is about 7 km away from the town. Regular flights from Dar es Salaam, Kenya, and other major destinations in East Africa connect directly to Zanzibar.
• By Sea: Stone Town is also accessible by ferry from Dar es Salaam. The ferry ride takes about 2 hours, and there are daily departures between the two cities.
• By Taxi: From Zanzibar Airport, you can easily take a taxi to Stone Town. The ride typically takes around 15-20 minutes.

Best Time to Visit Stone Town

• Dry Season (June to October): This is the best time for exploring the historical sites and enjoying Zanzibar’s beaches.
• Wet Season (November to May): The wet season brings more humidity and rain, but it can still be a good time to visit if you prefer fewer crowds.