Zanzibar is an Archipelago off the mainland of Tanzania, a well known stop on the spice route, Zanzibar’s culture reflects the city’s Arabic, Indian and African influences. Stone Town, also known as Mji Mkongwe (Swahili for "old town"), is the old part of Zanzibar City. I absolutely loved exploring its narrow streets and getting lost in its market places.
The heart of Stone Town mostly consists of a maze of narrow alleys lined by houses, shops, bazaars and mosques. Since most streets are too narrow for cars, the town is crowded with bicycles and motorbikes.
Despite the establishment of a Conservation Authority, about 80% of the buildings of Stone Town are in a deteriorating condition.
In the 19th century Stone Town flourished as a trading centre. It was especially renowned for the commerce of spices (mostly cloves) and slaves.
The most well-known feature of Zanzibari houses are the finely decorated wooden doors, with rich carvings and bas-reliefs, sometimes with big brass studs of Indian tradition
