 The
Island of Zanzibar lies 22 miles ( 40 km ) off the Tanzanian Coast. Just
the name , Zanzibar evokes dreams of romance and mystery, and the reality
will not disappoint the traveler bored with mass tourism, seeking an enlightening
and enjoyable holiday experience.
The Island has long been a meeting place of the world and certainly where
Arabia Meets Africa. Once the Centre of the slave and ivory trade, Zanzibar
welcomed into its harbour ships loaded with goods from India and the Far
East as well as Europe and America. An Indian Bazaar still operates on the
island today, as well as the world's largest clove market.
The Oman Arabs who once ruled the Island left behind whitewashed architectural
delights that are in great condition. Among them are the Sultan's Palace,
the Arab Fort, and the Beit el Ajaib ( House of Wonders ) which is Zanzibar's
tallest building. Visitors always remark that a journey to Zanzibar is like
going back in time, the atmosphere is that of the age of colonialism and
exploration, and the haunting ruins of the slave market are a pointed reminder
of the era's exploitative extremes. The slaves would be marched here from
the interior of the continent, sometimes over 1,000 miles. On some days,
hawkers would sell away as many as 600 lives. The Cathedral Church of Christ
near the Persian-styled " Hammamni Baths ", was completed in 1879 on the
site of an open slave market; it contains much of historical interest. To
the south of Zanzibar is the walled city of Kizimkazi where ruins of Shirazi
Mosque date as far as 900 years.
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