Stone Town, Urban heritage site in Zanzibar City, Tanzania
Stone Town is a historic quarter in Zanzibar City on the island of Unguja off the coast of Tanzania. The alleyways wind between multi-story houses with flat roofs and open courtyards that once caught rainwater and offered shade.
The quarter emerged in the late 18th century as a trading port where spices and ivory were loaded. Omani rule from 1832 brought new buildings in Arab style with large verandas and narrow windows.
The name Stone Town refers to the use of coral stone as the main building material, which has been harvested from the sea for centuries. Many homeowners still carve the elaborate wooden doors that once signaled a family's standing in the old trading networks.
The streets are often too narrow for cars, so walking is the best way to move around and comfortable shoes are recommended. The heat can be heavy at midday, so mornings and evenings are better for longer explorations.
Many doors still carry the old brass spikes that once kept elephants from ramming the houses. Some homes have hidden rooftop terraces overlooking the sea that were once private retreats for women.
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