Old Dispensary- Travel Tips

What to See, How to Plan & Tours

Discover the Old Dispensary: Zanzibar's Architectural Gem

Located on the bustling seafront of Stone Town, the Old Dispensary (also known as the Ithnashiri Dispensary) stands as one of the most striking and historically significant landmarks in Zanzibar, Tanzania. With its peppermint-green balconies, intricate carvings, and towering presence along Mizingani Road, this late-19th-century building perfectly encapsulates the diverse cultural heritage of the island. Whether you are an architecture enthusiast, a history buff, or a curious traveler, the Old Dispensary offers a fascinating window into Zanzibar's illustrious past.

1. A Masterpiece of Multicultural Architecture in Stone Town

The Old Dispensary is universally hailed as a symbol of Zanzibari multi-cultural architecture. It is an astonishing hybrid of styles that physically represents the convergence of the different cultures that shaped Stone Town.

The Stunning Exterior: Indian, European, and Swahili Influences

From the moment you approach the building, you are greeted by a breathtaking facade. The primary structure was built using traditional Zanzibari coral rag and limestone, a nod to the island's Swahili roots. However, draped over this robust foundation is a highly disciplined layer of European neo-classical stucco ornamentation. The crowning glory of the exterior, however, is its ornately carved, peppermint-green wooden balconies adorned with stained glass. These spectacular latticework balconies bear a distinct Indian influence, specifically echoing the Gujarati style brought over by wealthy Indian merchants in the 19th century.

Inside the Dispensary: Courtyards, Bridges, and Quirky Features

Stepping inside the Old Dispensary reveals an interior just as sophisticated as its exterior. A stunning covered courtyard fills the center of the building, rising three stories high to allow natural light and sea breezes to filter through. The upper floors are connected by beautifully carved wooden bridges that span the airy atrium. Interestingly, alongside its vintage charm, the building harbors a few modern quirks. Visitors often remark on the presence of an elevator—a surprising modern amenity that is famously known as one of the very few operating elevators in historic Stone Town.

2. The Fascinating History of the Old Dispensary

Behind the beautiful facade lies a tumultuous history of immense wealth, charitable intentions, political upheaval, and dedicated restoration.

A Vision of Charity: Sir Tharia Topan's Legacy

The construction of the Old Dispensary was commissioned in 1887 by Sir Tharia Topan, a prominent and immensely wealthy Ismaili Indian merchant. Topan was a key figure in Zanzibar, serving as a financial adviser to the Sultan and closely interacting with infamous historical figures like Tippu Tip. He laid the foundation stone to celebrate Queen Victoria's Golden Jubilee, with the noble intention of creating a charitable hospital for the poor. Unfortunately, Topan died in 1891 before the project was finished. Following a family dispute, the incomplete building was sold, eventually being finished in 1894. Throughout the first half of the 20th century, it fulfilled its destiny by operating as a charitable dispensary, earning its enduring moniker.

Revolution, Decay, and the Aga Khan Restoration

The political landscape of Zanzibar shifted dramatically during the 1964 Zanzibar Revolution. Many residents, including the wealthy merchants and inhabitants of the dispensary, fled the island. The building was requisitioned by the government and, over the following decades, fell into severe disuse and decay. Fortunately, its story did not end in ruin. In 1990, the Aga Khan Trust for Culture (AKTC) stepped in, initiating a meticulous restoration project as part of a broader Stone Town rehabilitation program. Completed in 1994, this restoration revived the building's structural integrity and aesthetic grandeur, saving one of Tanzania's most vital cultural assets.

3. Planning Your Visit to the Old Dispensary Today

Today, the Old Dispensary is not just a relic of the past; it is a living, breathing part of Stone Town's daily life. It is an absolute must-see on any Zanzibar itinerary.

Location and How to Get There

The Old Dispensary is conveniently located on Mizingani Road, right on the seafront. It sits directly opposite the main entrance to the Zanzibar Ferry Terminal and is just a short walk from other major historical sites like the Palace Museum and the Old Fort. Its towering sculpted clock tower and vibrant green balconies make it impossible to miss as you stroll along the waterfront promenade.

What to Expect as a Modern Visitor

While it previously housed a small museum and cultural center, the building recently returned to its medical roots. From 2021 to 2022, it was taken over by Aga Khan Health Services and transformed into a state-of-the-art polyclinic. Despite functioning as a real medical facility today, the staff are famously welcoming to tourists. Visitors are generally allowed to enter the airy courtyard, marvel at the architecture, and take photographs of the magnificent interior. When visiting, remember to be respectful of the patients and medical staff while you soak in the incredible history and multicultural beauty of this resilient Zanzibari treasure.