Stone Town

Stone Town is the historic old quarter of Zanzibar City on Unguja Island, recognized as a World Heritage Site for its well-preserved trading district on the East African Swahili coast. The alleys and squares form a tight maze of coral stone buildings with flat roofs, open verandas and intricately carved entrance doors adorned with brass fittings.

Towards the end of the 18th century, the Omani Sultan chose this coastal stretch as the capital of his empire and developed the district into a center for the spice and ivory trade. Throughout the 19th century the place grew through Arab, Indian and Persian traders who shipped their goods across the Indian Ocean to Asia and Europe.

Many street names and public squares in this district recall the Arab, Persian and Indian merchants who once settled here and brought their traditions along with them. Today residents often wear white kanzus or colorful kikois as everyday clothing in the winding lanes, while neighbors gather in inner courtyards to chat and spend time together.

The district is best explored on foot, as most lanes are too narrow for cars and sights, markets and inner courtyards often hide behind unassuming entrances. Early morning or late afternoon hours work well to avoid the heat and observe daily life in the streets before shops close.

Many of the old entrance doors display various symbols in their carvings and brass fittings that once hinted at the craft, origin or wealth of the house owners and are still restored by local craftsmen today. In some courtyards you can still find the old cisterns that collected rainwater and were once the only source of fresh water for residents.

Location: Mjini Magharibi Region

Location: Mjini District

Architectural style: Swahili culture, architecture of Iran, Islamic architecture

Part of: Zanzibar City

GPS coordinates: -6.16494,39.19879

Latest update: December 4, 2025 14:21