Attraction
Stone Town
Zanzibar's historic Swahili trading town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2000, packed into 96 hectares of coral-stone houses, carved doors and winding lanes.
Christ Church Cathedral and East African Slave Trade Exhibit
Anglican cathedral built on the site of Zanzibar's last slave market, with a heritage centre and exhibition on the East African slave trade beside it.
At a glance
- Type
- Anglican cathedral and slave trade heritage site
- Area
- Mkunazini, Stone Town, Zanzibar City, Tanzania
Good to know
- Guided visits
- Heritage exhibition
- Slave Monument
Why we recommend it
Christ Church Cathedral stands on the site of Zanzibar's main slave market, which the sultan closed in 1873. The foundation stone was laid on Christmas Day that year, the church opened at Christmas 1879 and it was consecrated in 1903. It was conceived by Bishop Edward Steere, the third Anglican bishop of Zanzibar, who died shortly before it was finished and is buried behind the altar. UNESCO's listing for Stone Town specifically cites the town's symbolic role in the suppression of slavery, and this is the place where that story is told most directly.
The building mixes Gothic and Islamic influences in a style often called Saracenic. Its nave has an unusual barrel-vaulted roof made from crushed coral stone and Portland cement, which was Steere's idea. Inside, the altar is said to stand where the market's whipping post once stood, and a cross is made from the wood of the tree at Chitambo under which David Livingstone's heart was buried. In the square outside is the Slave Monument, with figures in chains set into a pit.
The cathedral was restored with support from the World Monuments Fund between 2014 and 2016. As part of that project the former St Monica's hospital next door was adapted, and the East African Slave Trade Exhibit opened there on 15 June 2016. The heritage centre explains Zanzibar's history and cultural diversity and includes audio-visual recordings of local residents talking about the legacy of slavery. The World Monuments Fund puts visitor numbers at more than 100,000 a year.
Allow at least an hour to see the cathedral, the exhibition and the monument without rushing. Altezza Travel's 2026 guide reports a combined ticket covering the cathedral, the slave museum and a guide, with the site open daily from about 08:00 to 18:00; check on arrival, as times can change for services. The subject matter is harrowing, so younger children may need preparation. Dress modestly, as this is a working church.
The cathedral is on Mkunazini Road, a short walk from Darajani Market. Lukmaan, one of Stone Town's best-known local restaurants, is just behind it, making it easy to combine a morning visit with lunch.
Christ Church Cathedral and East African Slave Trade Exhibit FAQs
Why is Christ Church Cathedral important?
It was built on the site of Zanzibar's main slave market after the market was closed in 1873, to mark the end of slavery.
When was the cathedral built?
The foundation stone was laid on Christmas Day 1873, it opened at Christmas 1879 and was consecrated in 1903.
What is the East African Slave Trade Exhibit?
An exhibition in the former St Monica's hospital, opened on 15 June 2016, explaining the slave trade and its legacy.
Is a guide included?
Altezza Travel's 2026 guide reports that the ticket covers the cathedral, the slave museum and a guide; confirm at the entrance.
How long should you allow?
Around an hour for the cathedral, the exhibition and the Slave Monument.
Is it suitable for children?
Yes, but the subject is distressing, so prepare younger children beforehand.
What should you wear?
Modest clothing, as the cathedral is a working church.
What is nearby?
Darajani Market and Lukmaan restaurant are a short walk away.