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Old Dispensary

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Landmark
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Old Dispensary (Tanzania)

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The Old Dispensary, also known as the Ithnashiri Dispensary, is one of the most decorative and historically significant buildings in Stone Town, Zanzibar. It was commissioned by Sir Tharia Topan, a wealthy Ismaili merchant, and built between 1887 and 1894 to commemorate Queen Victoria's Golden Jubilee. The building is renowned for its eclectic architectural style, blending intricate Indian woodwork, European neoclassical columns, and local coral stone construction. Its most striking features are the elaborately carved wooden balconies that adorn the waterfront facade, showcasing the craftsmanship of the period. Originally intended as a charitable hospital for the poor, it has served various administrative functions throughout the 20th century. Following a period of neglect, it was meticulously restored in the 1990s by the Aga Khan Trust for Culture. It now functions as a cultural center and small museum, standing as a testament to the diverse cultural influences that shaped Zanzibar's history.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C272727272524242425262727
Rain mm1188916327917128212741111164141

📋 Practical info

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Visiting
The Old Dispensary in Stone Town, Zanzibar, is a striking building that can be viewed from outside. The interior is now a hotel, so no public access to the upper floors. The ground floor houses a café and shops.
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Typical hours
The building can be viewed from outside at any time. The ground-floor café is typically open from 8 AM to 8 PM. For hotel guests, the upper floors are naturally accessible.
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Photography
Photographing the façade is allowed anytime from the street. The ornate carvings and wooden balconies offer excellent detail for close-ups. You can also take interior shots in the café.
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Time needed
Viewing the exterior takes about 10-15 minutes. If you linger at the café and explore the area, allow 30 minutes.
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Combine with
Combine your visit with a walk through Stone Town's narrow streets and visits to the Slave Market and Old Fort. The House of Wonders is also a few minutes' walk away.
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Getting there
Old Dispensary is located on Mkunazini Street in central Stone Town. It is easily reachable on foot from any point in the old town. Taxis stop at the door.
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Insider tip
Visit the building in the late afternoon when the light gilds the façade. At the café you can try a traditional Zanzibar coffee.

Geography

Coordinates
-6.15830, 39.19060

Facts

  • Built between 1887 and 1894
  • Commissioned by merchant Sir Tharia Topan
  • Blends Indian, European, and Arabic styles
  • Restored by the Aga Khan Trust in the 1990s
  • Located on the Mizingani Road waterfront
  • Originally served as a charitable dispensary

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Malindi MosqueMalindi Mosque<1 km · SExplore →
Maruhubi Palace RuinsMaruhubi Palace Ruins2 km · NEExplore →
Prison IslandPrison Island4 km · SEExplore →
Chumbe IslandChumbe Island10 km · WExplore →
UngujaUnguja12 km · NExplore →
Zanzibar Spice FarmZanzibar Spice Farm13 km · NExplore →
Mangapwani Slave CavesMangapwani Slave Caves15 km · EExplore →
KiwengwaKiwengwa25 km · NEExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

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© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService

Sights in the town Old Dispensary (2)

The Big Tree📍 landmark

A massive, historic Indian banyan tree near the Zanzibar waterfront that serves as a traditional gathering place and shaded landmark.

Bharmal Building📍 landmark

A prominent historic colonial-era structure in Zanzibar, reflecting the architectural influence of wealthy Indian merchants.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What can one see at the Old Dispensary?
The building now houses a small museum about the city's history.
Is it a historically significant building?
Yes, it is one of the most architecturally beautiful buildings in Stone Town.
Is there an entrance fee?
A small entrance fee is charged for the small museum.
How long does a visit take?
Plan about 30 minutes for the building and the exhibition.
Is the building air-conditioned?
No, it is a historic building without modern air conditioning.
Old Dispensary: where is it located?
Old Dispensary is located in Tanzania.
Old Dispensary: what is there to see?
Highlights include The Big Tree, Bharmal Building.
Old Dispensary: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Old Dispensary: why is it worth visiting?
The Old Dispensary, also known as the Ithnashiri Dispensary, is one of the most decorative and historically significant buildings in Stone Town, Zanzibar.
View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →
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History & landmarks

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The oldest surviving structure in Stone Town, built by Omani Arabs to defend against the Portuguese.
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Maruhubi Palace Ruins
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Mtoni Palace Ruins
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Mangapwani Slave Caves — Old Dispensary (Tanzania)
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