The place known as "place of the jackal" is believed to have originated from either TjiKalanga or Thisvenda languages. Despite its small population of only 5000 people, this area was considered the first Kingdom in Southern Africa, lasting for approximately 140 years due to harsh climate changes .
Located at the confluence of the Shashe and Limpopo rivers, in the tri-border area of South Africa, Botswana, and Zimbabwe, the enigmatic Kingdom of Mapungubwe was unearthed in 1933.
According to legend, the rediscovery of this area occurred when a local farmer named ESJ van Graan observed a man drinking from a vase. Curious, van Graan approached the man for water, who, being knowledgeable about artifacts, was reluctant to reveal the source. However, his son, in need of money, guided van Graan back to the mountain, to the hidden place called Mapungubwe. This led to a significant discovery.
In 1933, archaeologists were granted permission for excavation, uncovering 23 graves, three of which were particularly noteworthy. One grave contained the skeleton of a woman buried in a large clay pot adorned with gold bracelets. The other two graves, believed to be of the King and his brother, also contained male skeletons seated in large clay pots. The King's grave was distinguished by the presence of a scepter, a golden bowl, and a golden rhino statue, while his brother's grave included gold and a crocodile head.
The artifacts from this ancient Kingdom are currently exhibited at the University of Pretoria.
Useful facts about this area:
Park is divided into two different areas - Eastern and Western park.
Check in gate for all camps are in the Eastern area. East to West is about 25min drive.
There is no fuel, so ensure you fill up tanks and jerry cans. Closest fuel, Alldays or Musina.
Mobile signal is good at the Eastern side, but Western side will require roaming from Botswana.
As R521 road conditions from Alldays are extremely bad, it is advisable to use the R572 via Musina. (Info date: August 2024)
Location: -22.21190, 29.38705
