Stone Town

Overview

Stone Town is the most interesting place on Zanzibar. It features once-grand palaces and public buildings dating back to the sultanate period of the early nineteenth century, now -- sadly -- rather run-down and ill-repaired.  Its narrow lanes are lined with curio shops and tourist handicrafts, although magnificent carved wooden doorways dotted everywhere indicate that the old crafts are still understood and practiced.  Stone Town has that characteristic feel to it that probably made you want to visit Zanzibar in the first place.

History