Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in Zanzibar City, Tanzania, is known for its rich history, unique architecture, and vibrant culture. A tour of Stone Town typically includes the following highlights:
1. Forodhani Gardens: A popular waterfront park where you can sample local street food in the evening market.
2. House of Wonders (Beit-al-Ajaib): Once the ceremonial palace of Sultan Barghash, it’s one of the largest and tallest buildings in Stone Town and now a museum.
3. Sultan’s Palace (Beit el-Sahel): Another former palace turned museum, showcasing the lifestyle of the Zanzibari royal family.
4. Old Fort (Ngome Kongwe): A 17th-century fort built by the Omani Arabs to defend against the Portuguese. It now houses shops, a cultural center, and an open-air amphitheater.
5. Darajani Market: The main market in Stone Town, bustling with vendors selling fresh produce, spices, seafood, and other goods.
6. lave Market Memorial and Anglican Cathedral: Built on the site of a former slave market, the cathedral and its museum provide a sobering reminder of Zanzibar’s role in the slave trade.
7. Freddie Mercury’s House: The birthplace of Queen’s lead singer, Freddie Mercury, now a small museum dedicated to his life.
8. Hamamni Persian Baths: Historic public baths built in the late 19th century, showcasing Persian architectural influences.
9. Streets and Alleys: Wandering through the narrow, winding streets and alleys of Stone Town allows you to admire the blend of Arab, Persian, Indian, and European architectural styles. Look out for the intricately carved wooden doors, a hallmark of Stone Town’s design.
10. Livingstone House: A significant site where famous explorer David Livingstone prepared for his explorations into the African interior.
When planning a tour, consider hiring a local guide to enrich the experience with detailed historical context and anecdotes. Many tours also include opportunities to shop for local crafts, spices, and souvenirs.