The Elewana Collection reports that the first-ever museum dedicated to music legend Freddie Mercury has opened on the island of Zanzibar.
Officially partnered with Queen Productions in the UK, the museum aims to showcase his birth as Farrokh Bulsara, his roots with the Zoroastrian religion, his childhood and upbringing in Zanzibar, followed by his schooling in Panchgani, India, and then the rest of his journey to becoming one of the greatest music stars of all time.
Located in Shangani in the heart of Zanzibar’s Stone Town, the museum was officially inaugurated on the 28th anniversary of his passing. Queen Productions has loaned the museum an exclusive picture gallery of Freddie Mercury throughout different stages in his life and musical career.
“In 2002, being a Queen fan, I came back from the United Kingdom and named this building Mercury House,” said museum co-founder Javed Jafferji. “I always had this vision [of making it into a museum]. It took me 15 years to make this dream a reality, but it was totally worth it. This is my tribute to the legend who we’ve known and admired all our lives. Being a Zanzibari, I am very happy to be involved in a landmark project, which will cement the history of Freddie for many years to come.”
Andrea Boero, the other co-founder, said the project is something that future generations can cherish. “We have been accumulating a lot of material, including stories from people who were a part of his life in order to make this a solid tribute.”
The new museum is open daily from 10 am to 6 pm. Entrance is US$10 for adults and US$6 children. And it’s easy to reach for those staying at the Elewana Kilindi Zanzibar resort on the island’s north shore.
Originally designed and built for Benny Andersson of the 1970’s pop group ABBA, Kilindi Zanzibar is a true blend of the diverse cultures found on the Tanzania mainland and Zanzibar island.
With its “barefoot” essence, the resort is the island’s ultimate romantic destination and the perfect place to enjoy the beach and sea.
Set in a picturesque tropical garden along a secluded beachfront, the luxurious Pavilion Suites feature wide-arched glassless windows affording spectacular views over the Indian Ocean. Each villa has its own private plunge pool and is tended to by its own guest ambassador.
In addition to an infinity pool, the hotel boasts a delightful spa offering an extensive array of treatments that combine natural African ingredients with modern and traditional methods.
