Best For
Architecture enthusiasts and history lovers visiting Stone Town.
TZ
Historical Landmark·Historic, Grand, Functional
The Old Dispensary stands as one of Zanzibar's most iconic architectural treasures, showcasing an elegant fusion of Indian and European design elements from the late 19th century. Located on the Stone Town waterfront across from the ferry terminal, the building was meticulously restored by the Aga Khan Trust for Culture. While it formerly housed a museum, it now operates as the Aga Khan Polyclinic, providing a rare example of a historic site successfully repurposed for modern community use. Visitors are often struck by the ornate balconies and the presence of a modern elevator—a rarity in the historic district. It remains a picturesque stop for those interested in the island's colonial and cultural history.
The Old Dispensary stands as one of Zanzibar's most iconic architectural treasures, showcasing an elegant fusion of Indian and European design elements from the late 19th century. Located on the Stone Town waterfront across from the ferry terminal, the building was meticulously restored by the Aga Khan Trust for Culture. While it formerly housed a museum, it now operates as the Aga Khan Polyclinic, providing a rare example of a historic site successfully repurposed for modern community use. Visitors are often struck by the ornate balconies and the presence of a modern elevator—a rarity in the historic district. It remains a picturesque stop for those interested in the island's colonial and cultural history.
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Address
R5RV+P22,Malindi Rd, Zanzibar, Tanzania
Hours
Open nowOpen 24 hours
Highlights
Intricate Indian and European architectural fusion.
Restored by the Aga Khan Trust for Culture.
Conveniently located directly opposite the ferry terminal.
Features one of the rare elevators in Stone Town.
Functioning polyclinic within a historic shell.
Time of Day
Lunch
Occasion Tags
Tourists, Locals
Reviews
4.3
Great295 reviews
The Old Dispensary is highly regarded by visitors as an architectural gem that beautifully preserves Zanzibar's history. Reviewers frequently mention its stunning facade, which combines Indian and European styles, and its successful restoration by the Aga Khan Trust. While many visitors arrive expecting a museum, they are often surprised to find it now functions as the Aga Khan Polyclinic. Despite its role as a working hospital, guests report that staff are generally welcoming to tourists who wish to explore and take photographs. A recurring point of interest is the building's elevator, which is noted as a rare sight in Stone Town. Its location directly opposite the ferry terminal makes it an easy and essential stop for those arriving or departing by sea.
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Location
Stone Town, Zanzibar, Mjini Magharibi Region, Tanzania
