Zanzibar: A Pictorial Guide: Stone Town and its historic heart

Zanzibar - the name conjures up images of a tropical paradise with swaying palm trees, where a fascinating history and culture blend with endless sandy beaches to create the perfect getaway. Located on the East African coast, Zanzibar and Stone Town also have a darker past. It was from here that thousands of slaves from the interior of Africa were shipped to destinations across the globe. Today Stone Town is the best preserved Swahili Arab port along the coast; forts, exquisite palaces, mosques, churches, narrow alleys, quiet lanes and bustling markets merge in a cacophony of colour, noise and spectacle. Popularly known as the Spice Islands, Zanzibar (and nearby Pemba) are friendly destinations, where a melting pot of vibrant cultures - African, Arab, Indian and Somali - live harmoniously as part of modern Tanzania. This pictorial guide to Stone Town and sights near Zanzibar City is packed with pictures, historical facts and charming anecdotes. Paradise really is found on this exotic island in the Indian Ocean.