Arusha, Tanzania — Est. 1994
Cultural Heritage Centre
Where Art, Heritage & Discovery Converge — East Africa's most distinguished cultural destination.
Welcome
A Landmark Destination
for African Culture
Founded in 1994, the Cultural Heritage Centre on Dodoma Road in Arusha has grown from a modest gallery into one of East Africa's most distinguished cultural institutions. It is a place where the continent's artistic traditions are preserved, celebrated, and shared with the world.
Home to a world-class art gallery, a vibrant gemstone and jewelry atelier, and a bustling market of authentic African craft, the Centre offers visitors an immersive journey through the creative spirit of Tanzania and beyond.
Discover
Three Worlds of Cultural Heritage✎
African Craftsmanship
Authentic beadwork, carvings, textiles, baskets, souvenirs, and handmade treasures from across Tanzania.
Explore
Tanzanite and Gemstones
Ethically sourced tanzanite from Merelani mines, sapphires, rubies, and bespoke jewelry — from mine to masterpiece.
Enter The Vault
Art, Antiques & Rare Finds
Explore African paintings, sculptures, antiques, furniture, and collectible objects curated for discovery and acquisition.
View ExhibitionsOur Journey
Three Decades of Heritage
The Beginning
What began as a single gallery on Dodoma Road became a vision for something greater: a place where African art, craft, and cultural memory could be preserved, experienced, and shared with the world.
The Market Expands
The Centre’s marketplace grew into a vibrant expression of African craftsmanship, bringing together makers, materials, colours, traditions, and objects that carry the everyday beauty of the continent.
Tanzanite & Gemstones
With the growth of Tanzanite and fine jewelry, Cultural Heritage deepened its connection to one of Tanzania’s rarest natural treasures — celebrating gemstones through quality, design, and private consultation.
A Living Institution
Gallery, market, jewelry vault, Jane Goodall Museum, and cultural programmes — welcoming over 50,000 visitors annually from every corner of the globe.
The Experience
Immerse Yourself in Culture
More than a destination — the Cultural Heritage Centre is a living experience. Walk with us through the creative heart of East Africa.
Guided Tours & Dayrooms
Explore the Gallery, Market, Jewelry World, and wider Centre with a guide, then relax in our dayrooms and dining spaces above East Africa’s largest art gallery.
Learn MoreWorkshops
Take part in Maasai beading, basket weaving, and painting workshops led by skilled makers and artists.
Learn MoreMuseums
Discover the Jane Goodall Museum and African Ceremonies Museum, created to deepen the cultural and educational experience of every visit.
Learn MoreStories
From the Heritage Journal
Tanzanite: The Gem Found Nowhere Else on Earth
Discovered in 1967 near the foothills of Mount Kilimanjaro, tanzanite is found in only one place on Earth:…
Planning Your Safari: Arusha as Your Gateway
Arusha is the safari capital of East Africa, perfectly positioned between the Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, Tarangire, and Lake…
Maasai Beadwork: Colours That Speak
To the Maasai, beadwork is not merely decoration — it is a language. Every colour carries meaning: red…