Zanzibar City history

Zanzibar City, and particularly its historic centre known as Stone Town, possesses a rich and multi-layered history stretching back centuries. Its formation is the result of a fusion of cultures and active trade at the crossroads of maritime routes in the Indian Ocean.

Foundation and First Mentions

Although the first settlements on Unguja Island date back millennia, the history of the city in its current sense begins significantly later. From approximately the 10th–11th centuries, Arab and Persian merchants began to develop the convenient natural harbour on the island's western coast, which was sheltered from the winds. It was here that they laid the foundation for the future city, which eventually evolved into a vital trading post. The first stone structures, which gave the historic centre its name, began to appear thanks to these traders. The name "Zanzibar" is believed to be of Persian origin, meaning "coast of black people".

Key Factors in Development

The city's development was defined by several key factors:

• Geographical Location: Its position at the intersection of trade routes between Africa, the Arabian Peninsula, Persia, and India made the city an ideal transit base for seafarers.
• Trade: Zanzibar became the primary hub of trade in East Africa. Initially, this involved the trade of ivory and gold, and later, slaves. In the 19th century, under the rule of the Omani Sultans, the archipelago earned the nickname "Spice Islands" due to the large-scale cultivation of cloves, nutmeg, and other spices.
• Political Power: In 1698, Zanzibar came under the control of the Sultanate of Oman. In 1840, Sultan Said bin Sultan moved his capital from Muscat to Zanzibar, which definitively cemented the city's status as the political and economic centre of the region.

Early Cultural and Economic Features

The early period of Zanzibar's history shaped its unique cultural identity. The blend of African (Swahili), Arab, Persian, Indian, and later, European influences gave rise to a distinctive culture and architecture. The city's historic centre, Stone Town, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and visibly demonstrates this fusion of styles. The economy was entirely dependent on international trade. The city was not only a market for spices and ivory but also one of the largest centres of the slave trade in the Indian Ocean, which remains a dark chapter in its history.

Key Dates in the History of Zanzibar City

The history of Zanzibar City is a kaleidoscope of cultures and events that have shaped its unique character. From ancient trading posts to the centre of a powerful sultanate and an important World Heritage site — here are the main milestones of its journey.

• 10th–11th Centuries — The first Arab and Persian merchants establish permanent settlements at the site of the future harbour, laying the foundation for trade.
• 1499 — The Portuguese explorer Vasco da Gama lands on the island, marking the beginning of European influence in the region.
• 1505 — Zanzibar officially becomes part of the Portuguese Empire, which controlled the island for nearly two centuries.
• 1698 — The archipelago comes under the control of the Sultanate of Oman following the expulsion of the Portuguese, opening a new chapter in its history.
• 1840 — Sultan Said bin Sultan moves his capital from Muscat (Oman) to Zanzibar, transforming the city into the political and economic centre of his vast empire.
• 1873 — Under pressure from Great Britain, the Sultan officially bans the slave trade, although it continued illegally for some time.
• 1890 — Zanzibar becomes a British Protectorate, cementing British influence in the region.
• 27 August 1896 — The shortest war in history, known as the Anglo-Zanzibar War, takes place; it lasted just 38 minutes and ended in a British victory.
• 10 December 1963 — Zanzibar gains independence from Great Britain, becoming a constitutional monarchy.
• 12 January 1964 — The Zanzibar Revolution occurs, overthrowing the Sultan and proclaiming the People's Republic of Zanzibar and Pemba.
• 26 April 1964 — Zanzibar and Tanganyika unite to form a new state — the United Republic of Tanzania.
• 2000 — The historic city centre, Stone Town, is inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List as an outstanding example of cultural fusion and a well-preserved Swahili trading town.

Key Stages in the Development of Zanzibar City

The development of Zanzibar City is the story of its transformation from a trading post into the capital of an empire, and subsequently into a cultural gem of global significance. Each stage left its mark on the city's architecture, economy, and culture.

• Transfer of the Capital of the Sultanate of Oman (1840). Sultan Said bin Sultan moved his capital from Muscat to Zanzibar, which became a turning point in the city's history. This decision turned it into the political and economic hub of a vast maritime empire. Active construction of palaces, administrative buildings, and stone houses began, shaping the appearance of Stone Town.
• Emergence as a Global Spice Trade Centre (19th Century). The city became the world's largest supplier of cloves, earning it the nickname "Spice Island". Huge revenues from spice exports financed construction and attracted merchants from Asia and Europe, facilitating cultural exchange and economic growth.
• Centre of the Slave Trade in East Africa (until 1873). For decades, the city's economy depended heavily on the slave trade, hosting one of the largest markets in the region. The official ban on human trafficking under British pressure in 1873 became a critical social and economic transformation, forcing the elite to shift entirely to agriculture and legal trade.
• Establishment of the British Protectorate (1890). Coming under the control of the British Empire marked the beginning of an era of modernisation. Although the Sultan retained nominal power, the British administration initiated significant urban planning changes, including improvements in sanitation and infrastructure development.
• The Zanzibar Revolution and Union with Tanganyika (1964). The revolution ended the centuries-old rule of the Sultanate and led to the creation of the People's Republic of Zanzibar and Pemba. Shortly thereafter, the union with mainland Tanganyika occurred, resulting in the formation of the modern state of Tanzania. This step radically changed the city's political and social landscape.
• Inclusion of Stone Town in the UNESCO World Heritage List (2000). The recognition of the historic city centre as a World Heritage site highlighted its unique cultural and architectural significance. This status gave a powerful boost to the development of tourism, which is today one of the key sectors of Zanzibar's economy, and contributed to the preservation of its historical appearance.

The architecture of Zanzibar City, especially its historic heart — Stone Town, represents a unique interweaving of styles reflecting its rich history as a commercial crossroads of civilisations. There are no classical European eras like Gothic or Renaissance here, but there is a distinct architectural language formed under the influence of African, Arab, Indian, and European cultures. The entire appearance of the city is a vivid illustration of centuries of cultural synthesis.

Early Swahili Style and Arab Influence (Pre-19th Century)

The foundation for the built environment was traditional Swahili architecture, adapted to the hot and humid climate. Buildings were constructed from coral stone set in lime mortar, giving the walls a characteristic warm hue. This period is characterised by thick walls that keep the interior cool, internal courtyards hidden from prying eyes, and long stone benches at the entrance called "baraza". The main symbol of the era became the famous carved wooden doors — an indicator of the homeowner's status and wealth.

Omani Sultanate Period (19th Century)

With the transfer of the Omani Empire's capital to Zanzibar in 1840, urban planning received new momentum. During this period, the city's most monumental and iconic buildings were erected. Architecture became more majestic: multi-storey palaces with high ceilings, wide verandas, and intricate balconies appeared. The brightest examples of this style are the Sultan's Palace (Beit al-Sahel) and the grandiose House of Wonders (Beit al-Ajaib), which became the first building on the island to have electricity and a lift.

Indian Influence (19th – Early 20th Century)

Indian merchants, who played a key role in trade, brought their own features to the city's architecture. Their houses, often combining a shop on the ground floor with living quarters on the upper floors, were distinguished by specific decor. Elegant wooden balconies with turned railings, windows with coloured glass, and more complex facade finishes appeared. Indian influence is particularly noticeable in door design: while Arab doors were rectangular, Indian doors were often decorated with a semi-circular arch and brass spikes — a decorative element that, in India, served as protection against elephants.

European Colonial Period (Late 19th – Mid-20th Century)

With the establishment of the British Protectorate, buildings with elements of European architecture appeared in the city. Although this influence was not dominant, it manifested in the construction of administrative buildings, consulates, and churches, such as the Anglican Cathedral, built on the site of the former slave market. In these structures, one can see features of Neoclassicism and stricter, more functional layouts. The oldest defensive structure is the Old Fort (Ngome Kongwe), built by the Omanis on the site of a Portuguese chapel in the late 17th century.

Distinguished Figures Associated with the City

Throughout its history, Zanzibar City has been a centre of attraction for many prominent individuals — from rulers and traders to figures of art and science. Their destinies are inextricably linked with this unique place.

Freddie Mercury (1946–1991)

• Role: Musician, lead vocalist of the rock band Queen.
• Significance: Farrokh Bulsara, known worldwide as Freddie Mercury, was born in Stone Town, Zanzibar. He spent his early childhood here before his family moved to the United Kingdom. Today, the house where he was born is one of the city's main attractions and a place of pilgrimage for fans of his work.

Said bin Sultan (1791–1856)

• Role: Sultan of Muscat, Oman, and Zanzibar.
• Significance: In 1832 (or 1840), this influential ruler moved the capital of his vast maritime empire from Muscat to Zanzibar, transforming the city into the main political and economic hub of East Africa. His reign marked the "Golden Age" of Zanzibar, associated with the trade in spices and ivory.

Tippu Tip (c. 1837–1905)

• Role: Ivory and slave trader.
• Significance: Hamad bin Muhammad al-Murjebi, known as Tippu Tip, was one of the most powerful and controversial figures of his time. He created a vast trading empire in Central Africa, based in Zanzibar. His life reflects the darker chapters of the region's history related to the slave trade, but his figure remains key to understanding the economy and politics of 19th-century Zanzibar. He died in his home in Stone Town.

Abdulrazak Gurnah (born 1948)

• Role: Writer, winner of the 2021 Nobel Prize in Literature.
• Significance: Gurnah was born in Zanzibar and was forced to leave the island in the 1960s following the revolution. In his novels, such as "Paradise" and "By the Sea", he explores themes of colonialism, exile, and identity, often referencing the history and culture of his homeland. His work has brought Zanzibar global literary recognition.

Emily Ruete (1844–1924)

• Role: Princess of Zanzibar and Oman, writer.
• Significance: Born Sayyida Salme, daughter of Sultan Said bin Sultan, she went down in history thanks to her autobiography "Memoirs of an Arabian Princess from Zanzibar". Falling in love with a German merchant, she fled the island, converted to Christianity, and moved to Europe. Her book became the first known autobiographical work by an Arab woman and provided a unique insight into life at the Sultan's court in the 19th century.

Bi Kidude (c. 1910–2013)

• Role: Singer in the Taarab genre.
• Significance: Known as the "Queen of Taarab and Unyago", Bi Kidude was a legendary performer of traditional Zanzibari music. She began performing in the 1920s and continued her career for nearly a century, becoming a cultural symbol of Zanzibar and all of East Africa. Her unique voice and charisma earned her international recognition and numerous awards.