Stone Town is a gritty urban hub seeped deeply in tradition. The Arabic influence is strong, and is reflected in everything from the architecture, the genetic make-up of many of the people, and Islam, the predominant religion.
A city situated right on the water, Stone Town was a major stop on the Arabic trade route hence Zanzibar's reputation as Spice Island, due to all of the trading and cultural blending that occurred on the island.