Stone Town The Historic Capital of Zanzibar
The romantic islands of Zanzibar are celebrated around the world for their beauty, beaches and history with Stone Town being one of the islands biggest attractions. Stone Town rose to prominence in the 17th century is the old city and cultural centre of Zanzibar. the haunting history of Stone Town is enough to make you shiver, the old slave castle and market are reminders of what the island was most famous for. Before his final expedition in 1866, Stone Town was used as a base by David Livingstone. Meandering alleys and noisy bazaars characterize Stone Town as one of the few intact historical Swahili coastal trading towns of East Africa. The 2,500 buildings of Stone Town are all made from coral stone, lime and clay including 45 mosques, 2 christian churches and 4 hindu halls. Several buildings have been renovated and stored by the Stone Town conservation authority since UNESCO declared it a world heritage site.
Stone Town is packed with history and culture but for most visitors Zanzibar is about sea, corals and dolphins. While visiting Zanzibar, you should schedule time for a walk through the fascinating streets of Stone Town. The contrast in Zanzibar between the main town area, Stone Town and the tourist venues on the islands are startling. Stone Town is very real community where people work and live so as you walk along the streets, you should remember this. Stone Town with its narrow alleyways, intricately carved doors and ornate balconies make it a popular destination in Zanzibar. Most people lose their bearings in Stone Town but getting lost there is normal, fun and harmless. Livingstone’s house, the old dispensary, the peace memorial, the palace museum, the Arab fort and the house of wonders are key attractions in Stone Town. Silver sandy beaches bejeweled by superb resorts lie beyond Stone Town.
The port area of Stone Town has one or two good wreck dives. I would suggest maybe two day dives in and around stone town and then move to the beaches and islands for the more exciting diving experiences.
You can book your trip to Stone Town and Zanzibar with Explorer Travel by calling 0208 816 8789 or visit their website – http://www.big5.explorertravel.co.uk/StoneTown.htm
