Zanzibar, where History and Culture also Mingles with India

Abstract

Zanzibar geographically located in East Africa Swahili coast as islands found a place of interest in map of periplus. It was first mentioned by Vaso Da Gama in 1499 and has been a key place in trade routes dated back to centuries. It is also found mention of many narratives from history. Since the affluence in trade and wealth, for about last two centuries, there has been a distinct connection with India that till today is reflected in various aspects such as buildings, language, community, culture and archaeology like pottery. An Indian community has been historically lived and flourished here even presently found many traces in rich cultures. Since Stone Town of Zanzibar designated as World Heritage site by UNESCO, it is a major tourist attraction and resembles the fragrance of history and cultures. This paper briefly describes Zanzibar and India connection through history, social and cultural archaeology.