While the pristine beaches and shimmering waters of this island will leave you speechless, the city itself boasts a rich history. Since the 12^th century, Zanzibar has been one of the world's major spice producers, and is among Africa's oldest port cities. Stone Town is perhaps the city's most interesting spot. It’s been home to a variety of cultures over history and is full of beautiful stone buildings. Carved wooden doors, works of art in their own right, decorate streets which seem to stretch on forever.