Stone town heritage and Tanzanite adventure in Zanzibar.

The House of Wonders (Beit-al-Ajaib) is one of the most iconic landmarks in Stone Town, Zanzibar. Located along the seafront, it is a magnificent historical building that showcases Zanzibar’s rich cultural and architectural heritage.
The House of Wonders was built in 1883 by Sultan Barghash bin Said, the second Sultan of Zanzibar. It was designed as a ceremonial palace and was the first building in East Africa to have electricity and an elevator which is why it was named the "House of Wonders."
Over the years, it served different purposes, including being a Sultan's residence, a government office, and later, a museum. Architecture:
The House of Wonders was the largest and tallest building in East Africa. Its architectural style is a fusion of Swahili, Omani, and European influences. Key features include:
Massive wooden doors, intricately carved in the Zanzibari style.

The Old Fort of Zanzibar or Ngome Kongwe, is the oldest building in Stone Town, built in the late 17th century by the Omani Arabs after expelling the Portuguese. Originally a defensive structure, the fort has served various purposes over the years, including a prison, a railway terminal, and a marketplace. Today, it is a cultural hub featuring an open-air pamphleteer that hosts events like the Zanzibar International Film Festival (ZIFF), as well as craft shops, historical ruins, and a small café. Visitors can explore its massive coral stone walls, learn about Zanzibar’s past, and enjoy traditional performances. Located next to Forodhani Gardens, the Old Fort is a must-visit for history and culture enthusiasts looking to experience Stone Town’s rich heritage.

Freddie Mercury, his real name was Farrokh Bulsara born on September 5, 1946, in Stone Town, Zanzibar, was the legendary frontman of Queen, known for hits like Bohemian Rhapsody and We Will Rock You. Raised in Zanzibar and India, he later moved to England, where he formed Queen in 1970. His powerful voice, flamboyant stage presence, and genre-blending music revolutionized rock. His Live Aid 1985 performance remains iconic. Though he spent most of his life in the UK, Zanzibar remains proud of its connection to him, with Mercury House marking his birthplace. Freddie passed away in 1991, but his musical legacy continues to inspire.

The Slave Market Museum in Stone Town, Zanzibar, is a powerful historical site that stands on the grounds of the former slave market, where thousands of men, women, and children were bought and sold during the 18th and 19th centuries. Zanzibar was one of the largest slave trade hubs in East Africa, with captives taken from inland regions like Tanzania, Malawi, and the Congo before being transported to the Middle East, India, and beyond. Today, the museum provides a sobering insight into this dark past. Visitors can explore the underground slave chambers, where enslaved people were held in cramped, airless conditions before being auctioned. A striking sculpture of chained figures marks the former auction site as a memorial to those who suffered. The Anglican Cathedral of Christ Church, built in 1873 after the abolition of the slave trade, stands on the exact spot where the main whipping post once stood. Inside, exhibits showcase historical documents, photographs, and personal stories.

The Tanzanite Museum in Zanzibar is a must-visit destination for gem enthusiasts, offering a fascinating journey into the history, science, and beauty of one of the world’s rarest gemstones. Discovered in 1967 near Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzanite is found only in Tanzania, making it a true generational treasure which is 1000 times rare than Diamond. At the museum, visitors can explore interactive exhibits showcasing raw and polished Tanzanite, learn about its unique trichroism effect, and watch live demonstrations of expert gem-cutting techniques. The museum also highlights the cultural significance of Tanzanite to the Maasai people and features an exquisite collection of handcrafted jewelry. Visitors can purchase certified Tanzanite stones and jewelry, ensuring authenticity and ethical sourcing. Conveniently located in Stone Town, Zanzibar, making it an educational and unforgettable stop for those seeking a deeper understanding of this extraordinary gemstone.