Harare, Capital city in Mashonaland region, Zimbabwe.
Harare is the capital of Zimbabwe, located on the central plateau with wide tree-lined avenues crossing the city. Jacaranda trees and local plants shade the streets and parks, while low-rise buildings and open spaces shape the urban layout.
The city was established in 1890 as Fort Salisbury by British colonists on Shona territory. After Zimbabwe gained independence, it received its current name in 1982, referring to a local ruler.
Locals gather in public gardens to walk and picnic, while the National Gallery of Zimbabwe exhibits contemporary art from across the continent. On weekends, parks fill with families and vendors selling traditional food and crafts.
Public transport relies mainly on minibuses called kombis that connect different neighborhoods. The road network is wide and most destinations are reachable during daylight hours, though you should carry cash for fares.
The Eastgate Centre was designed after termite mounds, allowing natural ventilation without conventional air conditioning. This approach draws on traditional African principles and reduces energy use considerably.
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