Great Zimbabwe, Archaeological ruins in Masvingo Province, Zimbabwe
Great Zimbabwe is an archaeological site in Masvingo Province, Zimbabwe, whose remains cover roughly 730 hectares. The complex consists of massive granite walls built without mortar, divided into three distinct architectural zones.
The settlement grew between 1100 and 1450 as the capital of the Kingdom of Zimbabwe, controlling trade routes that reached the East African coast. The site was abandoned during the 15th century for reasons that remain debated among researchers.
Local guides from nearby villages lead tours and share oral traditions about the settlement, connecting visitors to living memory and community pride. Schoolchildren from across the country visit regularly to learn about the achievements of their ancestors.
Minibuses run regularly from Masvingo town to the site, and the journey from Harare takes around five hours by road. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended since pathways can be uneven and some sections involve climbing.
The outer wall of the Great Enclosure reaches heights of around 36 feet (11 meters) at certain points without any mortar holding the stones together. Birds carved from soapstone were found within the site, and the country of Zimbabwe took its name from these ancient stone structures.
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