The Zanzibar archipelago is known for its central role in international commerce during the 19th century, during a period of Omani colonialism. Yet the richness of the Omani period has masked a deeper history of urbanism and of large-scale networks of trade and mobility. This podcast explores that deeper history, through a focus on the site of Unguja Ukuu where University of York research is currently exploring the growth of towns from the 8th century AD onwards and their relationship with local resources and landscapes. Find out more about the research: https://urbanecologyzanzibar.wordpress.com/ Episode funded by the University of York Impact Accelerator Fund (Dr Stephanie Wynne-Jones)and produced by Philippa Geering.