Stone town
Overview
It may not have a particularly romantic name, but Stone Town is the old city and cultural heart of Zanzibar, little changed in the last 200 years. It is a place of winding alleys, bustling bazaars, mosques and grand Arab houses whose original owners vied with each other over the extravagance of their dwellings.This one-upmanship is particularly reflected in the brass-studded, carved, wooden doors – there are more than 500 different examples of this handiwork. You can spend many idle hours and days just wandering through the fascinating labyrinth of narrow streets and alleyways.
This is a walking tour that takes you through fabled Stone Town, where history appears to stand still. With visits to the House of Wonders,the former slave market for East African Slave trade, and the Arab Fort among st others, it is a fascinating look at the essence of Zanzibar.The architectural style of Stone town buildings is a unique mixture of various influences and culture.You will see Zanzibar’s bustling market, winding alleyways, ornately carved and studded doors, two cathedrals and countless mosques! Stone Town has some excellent gifts shops with plenty of souvenirs and handicrafts to choose from.
A guided walk through this colorful and alternating city with tour knowledgeable tour guides, who knows not only funny of Stone town, but also cruel stories to tell about life of the old times in Stone town. Stone town tour is a walking tour and takes almost 3 hrs of walking in the narrow streets. The half daytrip includes the guide and all entrance fees.
five quick facts about stone town
- Was the birthplace of Freddy Mercury, the singer of Queen
- Is known for its beautiful and ornate doors
- Was the base for a significant slave trade until 1873
- Is on the UNESCO World Heritage List
- Was the starting point for David Livingstone's last trip to Africa in 1866