AfriSawari

Stone Town · Monumental seafront

Old Fort, House of Wonders and the waterfront

The monumental waterfront reveals changing power in Zanzibar, but one landmark—the House of Wonders—must be described with its ongoing rehabilitation, not falsely marketed as an open museum.

HistoryArchitectureWaterfront walksPhotography

Forodhani and Mizingani waterfront, Stone Town

At a glance

What to know

  • The Old Fort occupies the site of an earlier Portuguese church
  • The House of Wonders was built as a ceremonial palace for Sultan Barghash
  • Part of the House of Wonders collapsed in December 2020
  • UNESCO technical work and rehabilitation planning continued through 2025

The Old Fort and layers of rule

The fort's site links Portuguese and Omani periods, while later uses changed again. Its walls are important, but so is the way the surrounding seafront became a public cultural space rather than remaining only a military symbol.

Be honest about the House of Wonders

UNESCO identifies the building as a major ceremonial palace and a central part of Stone Town's World Heritage value. Following the 2020 partial collapse, technical missions assessed stabilisation, reconstruction and future museum use. Access and the appearance of works can change, so AfriSawari does not promise interior entry.

Walk the waterfront as one connected story

The Old Fort, House of Wonders, Palace Museum, Forodhani and harbour sit close together. Their relationship to the sea explains far more than viewing each building as an isolated photo stop.

  • Confirm opening and restoration status on the day
  • Respect barriers around active conservation work
  • Avoid guides who claim guaranteed access to closed areas
  • Return near sunset for a different reading of the waterfront

Accommodation planning

Where to base yourself

These are useful stay areas, not paid rankings. Live AfriSawari properties appear only after host verification and marketplace onboarding.

Mizingani waterfront

Best for direct access to the monumental seafront and harbour.

Shangani

A quieter southern base within walking distance of Forodhani.

Explore Zanzibar stay areas

Continue exploring Zanzibar

Stone Town history and architecture Darajani Market and Forodhani food

Research sources

Editorial facts are checked against these sources. Fees, access rules and schedules can change and should be confirmed before booking.