Stone Town, the historic heart of Zanzibar City on the Unguja Island coast, is a breathtaking fusion of African, Indian, Arab, and European cultures. Known as a vital trading hub on the spice, silk, and slave routes for over a thousand years, Stone Town has earned a prestigious place on the UNESCO World Heritage List as one of the few remaining ancient towns in Africa.
The architecture of Stone Town reflects its multi-layered history, with grand buildings crafted from coralline ragstone and mangrove timber, bound with lime mortar and finished with plaster. The structures, which include two-story homes with elaborate Zanzibari doors, decorated interiors, and spacious verandas, showcase a blend of Swahili, Indian, Arabian, and European influences. The narrow alleys are lined with traditional Swahili ground-floor homes and Indian-style shops with narrow facades, forming a lively bazaar atmosphere where trade and community life thrive.
Stone Town’s architecture is complemented by iconic landmarks dating back to the 18th and 19th centuries. Key historical sites include:
The Old Fort: Built over a former Portuguese church, this fort served as a defensive structure and now hosts cultural performances.
The House of Wonders: This grand palace was constructed by Sultan Barghash and is recognized as one of the largest ceremonial structures on the island.
Christ Church Anglican Cathedral: Built on the former site of the last slave market, it stands as a powerful symbol commemorating Dr. David Livingstone’s efforts in ending the slave trade.
The Old Dispensary: This historic building, featuring stained glass and ornamental balconies, highlights the rich architectural heritage.
Tippu Tip’s Residence: The home of the notorious slave trader offers a sobering reminder of Zanzibar’s role in the slave trade.
Other highlights include St. Joseph’s Roman Catholic Cathedral, the Malindi Bamnara Mosque, and Persian baths like Hamamni.
