Zanzibar is considered one of the oldest shopping centers, known to travelers since the days of the Sumerians and Assyrians. True, in ancient times it was called differently. In the guidebook compiled by Greek merchants, a certain Minosias is mentioned, located east of Africa, this was Zanzibar. In fact, this is a whole archipelago, the largest islands of which are Pemba and Unguja. This is the island of Unguja and it has become customary to call Zanzibar.
On the shores of the Indian Ocean is a delightful island, considered a reserve. His other name is “Spice Island”. Today, the island is an independent territory with its president, although it belongs to Tanzania. The capital of the country is the city of Stone Town.
The first inhabitants of the land of spices were Bantu people, this happened more than 2 thousand years ago. In those ancient centuries, a trip to Zanzibar was tantamount to a feat, because the Bantu tribe inhabiting the island were considered cannibals.
For a long time, the main occupation of the island’s population was trade. The objects of exchange were slaves and gold, ivory and wood. Instead, people from the east offered glass and seasonings, as well as textiles. By the way, it was the eastern merchants who spread Islam among Africans.
Almost from the beginning of its existence, various spices were grown on the island, including cloves, cinnamon and other spices. It was they who brought Zanzibar fame and worldwide fame, and also became the bulk of the exported goods. Spice-free part of the island is populated by tropical forests and savannah.
The islands around Zanzibar can themselves be considered sights. Among them, the island of Pemba, famous for its ruins of ancient cities, as well as the island of Nyoka, inhabited mostly by snakes, the island of Cangu, previously considered a prison – now only giant turtles live here, the island of Chapwani, on which the English cemetery is located. Stand out among the islands of Sand Bar and Bowie, known as the best places for snorkeling. Somewhat separate from the others is the island of Tumbatu, in whose territory there are ruins of Persian buildings of the 12th century. On Chumbe Island is the country’s first Marine National Park, known for its Coral Park. Do not ignore the other islands, saturated with marine life.
It is clear that, like any African country, Zanzibar is famous for its beaches. The beaches of the island are well-maintained, with many attractions for tourists: diving, fishing, including underwater, snorkeling and walks along the coral reefs that open during low tides. The sand on the beaches is white and shallow, so for lovers of a relaxing holiday there is a real paradise.
As for the historical sites, one of them is located right in the center of the city -; it is called the Stone City and consists entirely of ancient buildings resembling palaces. Most of these houses, decorated with openwork balconies, as well as carved windows and doors, are more than 150 years old. The stone city is built in Arabic and Indian styles. The streets in the city are small and narrow, but there is enough space for many shops, including souvenir ones.
In addition to the stone houses, it is worth seeing the Anglican Cathedral, built on the site of the former slave market. According to legend, the architect who built the cathedral had to travel, entrusting the construction to assistants from among the indigenous population. Upon returning, the master discovered that the columns located directly in front of the entrance were turned upside down. Since the entire building would have to be rebuilt for remodeling, we decided to leave everything as it is. As a result, over hundreds of years, travelers can admire this original building.
Fans of temple architecture are advised to visit St. Joseph’s Cathedral, Christ Cathedral, as well as the Malindi Mosque, which is considered one of the oldest in Africa. From museums it is worth taking a look at the National Museum, filled with exhibits telling about the history of the island, as well as the Palace Museum, which is dedicated to Princess Salma.
To the north of the city center are the palace complexes – Maruhubi Palace, Mtoni Palace, as well as the Kibveni Palace, which is still operating. It serves as the residence of the President of Tanzania and many honored guests.
Of the natural beauties of the island, it is worth noting the Coral and Slave Cave in the city of Mangapwani, as well as the Josani Forest. Travelers find themselves in a forest of vines and ferns, through which wooden walkways are laid. Thickets are inhabited by monkeys that are easily suitable for people, and in the Menai zone you can see giant turtles, sometimes coming ashore.
One of the most popular activities on the island is fishing. True, it’s rather difficult to catch fish larger than an aquarium if you catch in shallow water. Deep sea fishing, lasting from September to March, will pleasantly surprise a tourist with an abundance of barracudas, tuna and marlin, as well as other deep sea fish.
