Naletale, Archaeological site in south-central Zimbabwe
Naletale is an archaeological site where stone walls form an oval shape spanning 60 meters across, with raised platforms that once held houses. The walls feature different decorative patterns and sit atop a granite hill overlooking the surrounding landscape.
A ruling dynasty established this site as a capital in the 17th century after moving from earlier settlements elsewhere. The location was chosen for its position overlooking the surrounding region.
The stone patterns on the walls reveal how people organized their living spaces based on status and kinship. The decorative styles you see walking through the site tell you much about who held power and how families were arranged.
You need to walk up a granite hill for about 30 minutes on a steep rocky path to reach the site. Wear sturdy shoes and bring water, as there is little shade along the way.
Excavations have uncovered glass beads and pottery that show residents traded with distant regions across the ocean. These objects prove the settlement had connections to far-flung commercial networks.
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