Did You Know the Capital of Oman Was Once in Zanzibar’s Stone Town?
Oman looks like a tiny country in the far southeastern part of the Arab Peninsula, and it’s one that most people hardly ever hear anything about it in the news. It seems peaceful and on its own, which is true, and that’s why it is a perfect nature and architecture escape for all beauty seekers. But did you know that the nation’s capital was once located in another country entirely? Here is a walk through Oman’s history and its African ties.
What most people don’t know is the historical relationships Oman used to have with different countries around the world, starting from east Africa, India, and all the way to the UK. Moreover, Oman had lots of exploration adventures and expeditions to open new lands and to expand the Omani empire. In fact, Stone Town in Zanzibar in eastern Africa was once the capital city of Oman.
Destinations Unlocked:
Let our travel expert Stefano help you find your perfect Culture tripLooking for an expert's perspective?
Uncover my top 3 recommended places from each continent on the map.
CentralAmerica
1. Guatemala
An express adventure for those with limited time off. Prepare yourself incredible experiences. You will hike a volcano, visit mayan temples and witness a ceremony and take in beautiful colonial Antigua.Next
CentralAmerica
2. Belize
A quick trip not too far away for those seeking a relaxing mini break. You will have plenty of free time to relax but also some awesome activities to experience the rainforest and the caribbean sea. Next
CentralAmerica
3. Mexico
An exciting mini trip exploring the lesser known colonial towns of central Mexico. This is hte perfect trip for someone with limited time off and still wants to turn on explorer mode and do something different. SouthAmerica
1. Ecuador
A remarkable 8 days adventure through the Andes and the Amazon rainforest. The best choice for adventure seekers wishing to visit the 2 most iconic areas of South America, in only 1 week and no flights.Next
SouthAmerica
2. Peru
An alternative itinerary to classic Peru, from Cusco to Arequipa. This itinerary is great combination of highlights Cusco and Machu Picchu with the lesser known Arequipa and Colca Canyon. Europe
1. Italy
The ultimate Italian experience from the vibrant streets of Naples to the breathtaking sceneries of the Amalfi Coast followed by Matera and down to Puglia with its golden beaches, intense flavours and fascinating destinations.Next
Europe
2. Scotland
Embark on this great adventure starting from London all the way to Scotland with a true Scottish experience made of breathtaking sceneries, whisky tasting and ..lots of fun! Ideal for train lovers and explorers. Next
Europe
3. Portugal
A wonderful train journey around Portugal, from the romantic city of Porto to the Douro Valley, to the beautiful Aveiro all the way to Lisbon and Sintra. The perfect trip to train, culinary and culture lovers. Asia
1. South Korea
Discover incredible temples, mountains and modern cities on this 10 day adventure. This trip is perfect for those seeking immersion in the cuisine, culture and natural wonders of South Korea.Next
Asia
2. Thailand
From Bankgok to Angkor Wat to Ho Chi Minh City and everything in between - adventure through the heart of South-East Asia. Taste the delights, see history brought to life and unwind on a Mekong River cruise. Next
Asia
3. Sri Lanka
A fantastic adventure that showcases Sri Lanka's fantastic landscapes, wildlife and flavours. With 3 epic rail journeys, 3 UNESCO heritage sites and time to relax, this trip has loads to offer at a great price Africa
1. Morocco
An epic journey across Morocco: from Casablanca to Marrakech, through the blue city of Chefchaouen to the wonders of the desert and deep to the High Atlas Mountains - this trip has it all! Ideal for true explorers!Next
Africa
2. Egypt
From Cairo to Aswan, this trip brings the land of the pharaohs to life. You'll visit the Pyramids, Valley of the Kings and Luxor Temple and cruise down the Nile in style. This is the perfect way to explore Egypt. Next
Most of Oman’s borders are coastal, which include the north, the east and the south. These coasts are bordered by the Arabian Sea, and the Gulf of Oman. Moreover, it is very close to the Indian Ocean. All of which facilitated the Omani voyages to explore nearby regions and to establish trade routes. Oman also has perfected the industry and art of ship-building. Using the high-quality wood of cities like Sur, Omanis established successful relations with India, Iran, and east Africa—especially Zanzibar.
Zanzibar was under the ruling of the Portuguese for around two centuries. Then, in 1698, the Omanis fought them out of the African lands and took control of Zanzibar. Lots of Omanis traveled to settle in Zanzibar. They built new homes, married Zanzibaris, and established their trade and industries on the new land. Even today, there are still some Omani families who live in Zanzibar, and some Omanis speak Swahili, which is the native language of Zanzibar. There are also some Zanzibaris who have settled and are still living in various parts of Oman.
Zanzibar had a flourishing economy from the growth of clove plantations, as well as in the ivory and slave trade. By 1840, Said Bin Sultan, the Sultan of Oman had moved the capital of his country from Muscat to the Stone Town of Zanzibar, and encouraged more Omanis to relocate and settle there.
During that era, a hospital, a fort, and some houses were built in Zanzibar using the distinctive Omani architecture and design. The name of the Omani Sultan was even printed on the stamps that people used in Zanzibar.
The Omani control over Zanzibar started to weaken when Sultan Said died in 1856, leaving the Omani empire to his two children who divided it into The Sultanate of Oman and Muscat and the Sultanate of Zanzibar.
There are some researchers who claim that the origin of the Omani Kummah, which is the traditional cap that the Omani men wear, was from Zanzibar.
Volcanic Iceland Epic Trip
meet our Local Insider
Hanna
HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN A GUIDE?
2 years.
WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT YOUR JOB?
It's the personal contact, the personal experiences. I love meeting people from all over the world... I really like getting to know everyone and feeling like I'm traveling with a group of friends.
WHAT DESTINATION IS ON YOUR TRAVEL BUCKET-LIST?
I have so many places on my list, but I would really lobe to go to Africa. I consider myself an “adventure girl” and Africa feels like the ULTIMATE adventure!
Every CULTURE TRIP Small-group adventure is led by a Local Insider just like Hanna.
KEEN TO EXPLORE THE WORLD?
Connect with like-minded people on our premium trips curated by local insiders and with care for the world
Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.
Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.
Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.
Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.
We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.
