The House of Wonders (Beit el Ajaib) was built in 1883 for cerimonial purposes by Sultan Barghash and derives its name from the fact it has been the first building in Zanzibar provided with electricity and lift. It's the most imposing building of Zanzibar, square-shaped with several stories, surrounded by tiers of pillars and balconies, and topped by a large clock tower. The clock tower has replaced the light house standing in front of the building, damaged by a british fleet's bombardment in 1896. Inside there are the most beautiful arabic doors of Zanzibar. Facing the house of wonders there are the foradhani gardens where, if you are not scared of local food, you can have the cheapest meal on the island. Next to the food market is the curio markets where to buy all kind of souvenirs and gift.