House of Wonders, Architectural landmark in Stone Town, Tanzania
The House of Wonders stands prominently along Mizingani Road with its white facade, cast-iron columns, and multiple levels of wraparound verandas facing Forodhani Gardens.
Sultan Barghash bin Said commissioned this palace in 1883, making it the first building in Zanzibar to have electric lights and an elevator system.
The palace interior displays exhibits about Swahili heritage through traditional fishing implements, maritime vessels, and portraits of significant Zanzibari personalities.
The museum entrance features two bronze Portuguese cannons from the 16th century, while residents of Zanzibar receive free admission to explore the exhibitions.
The structure incorporates covered passages called wikios above street level, which allowed royal women to move between palaces without being observed.
Location: Stone Town
Location: Mjini District
Founders: Barghash bin Said Al Busaidi
Official opening: 1883
Part of: Stone Town
GPS coordinates: -6.16090,39.18960
Latest update: May 27, 2025 13:11
Tanzania offers diverse photography sites from the Serengeti plains to Zanzibar's beaches. The country features Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa's highest peak, ancient Stone Town architecture, and the Ngorongoro crater. Wildlife photography opportunities include elephants in Tarangire, lions in Lake Manyara, and chimpanzees in Mahale Mountains. The coastline presents marine life, coral reefs, and traditional dhow boats.
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