Stone Town of Zanzibar is locally referred to as the Spice Island, and the island has a rich history of Silk and spice routes hence involving the intermingling of culture and traditions. Strolling around Stone Town, an old city and the heart of Zanzibar, people enjoy the colors of the productions, the smells of spices that have already conquered the world, and the bustle of the merchants that have been active for centuries.
A Historical Trading Hub
The famous name originates from the construction materials of the buildings adorning the town; beautiful coral stones with an intermingling of Arab, Persian, Indian, and European. The Spice and Silk Market bears a perfect testimony to the fact that Zanzibar enjoyed a strategic location in the Indian Ocean trade routes.
At that time Zanzibar was the main hub of spice production in the world exporting cloves, nutmeg, cinnamon, and black pepper among other spices. The island was centrally situated with many traders flocking there, to purchase of different sorting from Asia
Exploring the Market
If you stock your feet in the Spice and Silk Market you will be stunned to notice an array of colors and the fragrance is worthy of a whiff. Its dual functional usage is clearly seen where the market is a network of stalls and there and then marketing place yielding a peek into Zanzibar culture. Narrowed twisted alleyways are full of spices, herbs, textile products, and hand-made crafts that are trying to attract your attention.
- Aromatic Spices and Herbs
In, particular, the stalls with spices are interesting there the spices are stored in baskets, jars, or sacks. There are ethereal odors of cloves, the pungency of cinnamon and the faint sweet smell of vanilla fill the air.
These spices are very popular in Zanzibari cuisine as well as are of great importance in Traditional African Medicine, as well as Perfumery. There are prepared seasoning blends for pilau – an East African rice dish, masala and for making chai. Spices are available in the whole form including the pods and sticks as well as the ground form powders and each is packed to enhance its quality.
- Luxurious Silks and Textiles
Silk has been in circulation in Zanzibar for decades and the fabrics are in plenty in the market ranging from kanga, kitenge, silk sarongs, and shawls. Each of them has a message behind its back and these elaborate patterns and bright colors depict Zanzibar’s rich multicultural heritage.
These are before people in a wash of colors with many of the sellers even showing how they can be used and worn. If you are interested in the local dress, you get to experience the Zanzibari typical dress code or if you are a shopper you are guaranteed to find a souvenir to take back home from this place. The vendors are very good at bargaining, thus there is always a good opportunity to negotiate a fair price.
- Handicrafts and Souvenirs
Over and above spice, and silkworms, the market has anything from china, typical handicrafts, and even souvenirs. From the trinkets such as carved wooden boxes and silver jewelry down to soaps and musical instruments, there are equally numerous and distinguished crockery and other artifacts that may be seen in barter. Most of these crafts are produced by talented indigenous craftsmen, and the procedures followed in making these crafts are hereditary.
It is recommended to buy these items, for this way one helps the local artisans and also protects the cultural patrimony of Zanzibar. You need to gaze at the Tinga Tinga paintings, which is a form of African art that features bright colors and patterns and it was invented in Tanzania but is famous in Zanzibar. Other famous items for tourists to buy are souvenirs, coconut oil, traditional perfumes, and batik fabrics.
- Sampling Zanzibari Delicacies
A trip to the market will help you see different stalls that sell some of the delicious foods you’ll come across in the region. To eat one can try Indian snacks such as samosas, kebabs, and various fresh fruit juices as well. If you are a street foods lover don’t miss out on the local delicacy of urojo or Zanzibar Mix which is made of a thick soup accompanied by fritters and potatoes as well as a mix of spices. For the lovers of sweet foods, there are lots of things to buy ranging from hot fried kashata, sweet dates and halwa.
Tips for Visiting the Market
Visiting the Spice and Silk Market is an unforgettable experience, but there are a few things to keep in mind to make the most of your visit:
– Bargain Wisely: Self-employed people are found in abundance in the market, so bargaining is part of the process. But make sure you do it politely and kindly to note that many of them depend on their sales for their livelihood.
– Be Mindful of Your Belongings: Like any market in a crowded city, the Spice and Silk Market is during high traffic periods, and one has to be very careful with his belongings.
– Respect Local Customs: More so Zanzibar is predominantly an Islamic region and to avoid so much attention one is advised to dress appropriately when taking a walk at the market. It is recommended that one dress in light, comfortable, and loose-fitting clothes that extend to the shoulders and the knees.
– Bring Cash: However, some of the vendors may take credit cards; it is recommended that one has cash with him or her including small coins for making payments.
Conclusion
Indeed, the spice and silk market is not only a market for selling goods but it is the heartbeat of Stone Town, Zanzibar. Artistically arranged in shades of colors, fragrances, and bustle of activity, the market is a perfect representation of Zanzibar – a place where harmonious interactions of cultures and historical and traditional aspects are observed. For a first-time or even an experienced visitor, the market is one of the unique attractions that will remain in the memory of this voodoo island. Therefore the next time you land on Stone Town do not hesitate to visit Spice and Silk Market and wait for the Zanzibar enchantment to sweep you off your feet.
