For many, a trip to Zimbabwe is all about going on safari (and with very good reason), but have you ever heard of the Zimbabwe Ruins? A complete unknown to many–even those who have been to the country multiple times–the Ruins of Great Zimbabwe, as they’re officially called, offer a fascinating insight into an ancient civilization with seriously impressive architectural skills.
Derived from the term, ‘dzimba dza mabwe’, meaning ‘houses of stone’ in the Shona language, Great Zimbabwe is an imposing series of ruins spread throughout the lush Mutirikwi Valley in the southeast of the country. Building primarily began between the 9th and 11th century with various sectors being completed over hundreds of years by multiple generations.
Who built the Zimbabwe Ruins?
In the early 16th century, talk of a mighty and mysterious fortress abandoned in the African jungle spread throughout Europe. It can be linked to the writings of Portuguese naval captain, Vicente Pegado, who was one of the first foreigners to encounter and record the existence of the Zimbabwe Ruins. Many theories surrounded its genesis, suggesting that the structures were built by travellers from Portugal to Persia, the Lemba tribe of Jewish descent, or even aliens. Within most circles, it was seen as impossible that an African society could have accomplished such a feat. Thankfully, we now know differently.
Despite the denials of colonial leaders and the archaeologists they financed, in 1905, researchers concluded that the Zimbabwe Ruins date back to medieval times and were built by one or more of the local Bantu peoples, most likely the Shona.
What are the Great Zimbabwe Ruins?
Covering an area of around 80 hectares within the Mutirikwi Valley, Great Zimbabwe is the largest of over 150 major stone ruins found throughout Zimbabwe (the country) and Mozambique. Sitting at an altitude of 1,000 metres, the majority of the citadel was built between the 11th and 15th centuries. While it encompasses 12 complexes, there are three major sectors that have garnered the most interest and study.
Hill Complex
Located on the steepest hill within the ruins, the Hill Complex (formerly called the Acropolis) is regarded as the oldest portion of Great Zimbabwe, and evidence shows signs of construction dating back to 900 AD (CE). Rough, granite blocks form distinctive enclosures, some up to 20 feet thick, and accessed by narrow, partly-covered passageways. It is believed to have been the spiritual centre of the city and, in the east enclosure, a number of soapstone bird figures were discovered, which are considered to have served a ritual purpose. They became one of the most significant findings. The opposing west enclosure is thought to have been the residence of successive chiefs.
The Great Enclosure
Forming a circular shape with a circumference of 820 feet, the Great Enclosure is located to the south of the Hill Complex and dates back to the 14th century. One of its most fascinating elements is the complete absence of sharp angles and it’s said that, from the air, it resembles a giant grey bracelet. Constructed out of 900,000 pieces of sliced granite blocks, its impressive walls extend to over 32 feet high and within, there is a series of daga (hut) living quarters, a community area and a narrow passage leading to a high, conical tower. This is one of the most fascinating features of the Ruins with many historians left wondering if it was a symbolic grain storage facility, phallic symbol or royal residence. Whatever its purpose, this tower is one of the largest existing structures from ancient Sub-Saharan Africa.
The Valley Ruins
Scattered throughout the valley, there are a series of living quarters, mostly built out of brick (made of granitic sand and clay) including the walls, floors, benches, basins, etc. This sector of the Ruins displays an especially high standard of craftsmanship, incorporating impressive chevron and chequered wall decorations. This area is believed to have been occupied between the 14th and 16th century, when it was home to goldsmiths, potters, weavers, blacksmiths and stonemasons. The distribution and number of houses suggests that, at its height, Great Zimbabwe once had a population of 18,000 people.
What makes Great Zimbabwe so impressive?
In 1986, the Ruins of Great Zimbabwe were declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, due to a number of factors.
Architecture
Though now in ruins, the erstwhile splendour of Great Zimbabwe is evident in its towering walls, which were built out of granite pieces and blocks and assembled completely without mortar. Granite was finely cut from local outcrops, after which, they were heated and cracked into brick-shaped pieces, before being carefully selected and shaped to fit together precisely. This suggests exceptional planning and the slightly different styles show that building took place in different time periods. The Great Enclosure is, perhaps, the most impressive example of this, having used carefully-carved rocks to hold the walls’ shape on their own. The height and thickness of these walls only adds to the remarkable nature of its construction.
The building of the Great Zimbabwe citadel demonstrated skills that were extremely sophisticated for this time period with evidence of complex engineering principles like load distribution. Their urban planning was also highly advanced for the medieval era, including sophisticated water management systems that remain functional to this day. Ultimately, the precision of their stone fitting rivals other ancient architectural wonders like Machu Picchu.
Trade
Archaeological evidence also supports the idea that Great Zimbabwe became a pivotal point of trade between southern Africa, East Africa and Asia. More than 4,000 gold and 500 copper mines have been found in the area surrounding the site and it has been suggested that, for three centuries, 40% of the world’s total mined gold came from this region. Due to its resource-rich position and proximity to the ports on the coast of Mozambique and East Africa, Great Zimbabwe found itself at the centre of an extensive trading network where it contributed items like gold, ivory, copper, tin, cattle and cowrie shells.
Imported items have also been discovered amongst the ruins including glassware from Syria, a minted coin from Kilwa, and assorted Persian and Chinese ceramics, indicating a long-standing trade with regions far and wide.
The society
Great Zimbabwe was governed by various different ruling families, with the most prominent being the Karanga dynasty. These rulers held both political and religious authority, and controlled trade through a centralised system. The economy was further extended by cattle husbandry and crop cultivation. Specialised craftsmen and traders went on to form distinct social classes, which affected the use of living quarters as well.
The demise of Great Zimbabwe
Around the year of 1450 AD (CE), Great Zimbabwe was abandoned by the majority of its citizens. The exact cause of this cannot be pinpointed, however, theories suggest that it was a combination of overpopulation and a lack of resources. While these empty structures lay untouched for many years, there was a large amount of uncontrolled excavation and destruction by European colonists during the 20th century, which left many significant features severely damaged.
The legacy of Great Zimbabwe
After the site’s great exodus in the 15th century, much of its stoneworking and pottery techniques appear to have been transferred to Khami, which served as a significant capital in the region after the decline of Great Zimbabwe.
When Rhodesia gained independence, it was renamed Zimbabwe in honour of this great civilization (‘dzimba dza mabwe’). The birdlike figures discovered within the ruins were also honoured on the country’s flag and coat of arms, becoming known as the ‘Great Zimbabwe Bird’. The preservation of the Great Zimbabwe National Monument is now led by the National Museums and Monuments of Zimbabwe. The Ruins of this great civilization are a testament to the Shona people, and their architectural and economic skills.
How to visit the Zimbabwe Ruins
The Ruins of Great Zimbabwe are located in the Masvingo province, around a 4 – 5 hour drive from Bulawayo and 3 – 4 hours from Harare. Because of this, the best way to see the ruins is on a self-driven or chauffeured route.
The Great Zimbabwe Ruins entrance fee is $15 for adults and $8 for children (subject to change). We also recommend hiring a guide on arrival, who can be paid directly – it’s usually an amount of between $15 and $20. They offer fascinating stories and an incredibly unique insight into the Ruins.
You’ll likely need a solid three hours to get a good look at the three major complexes as well as the museum, which is included in the cost. Be warned, the short hike to the Hill Complex is rather steep so be sure to wear comfortable walking shoes. We can also arrange a visit to the nearby Shona village if you would like to delve deeper into the culture of the local communities.
Where to stay
There are a couple of well-trusted properties in the vicinity, which we can recommend for a convenient over-nighter to avoid long drives.
Lodge at the Ancient City
Located just 3 – 4km away from the Great Zimbabwe Ruins, the lodge was designed to blend in seamlessly with its ancient architecture, especially visible in the stone walls. You couldn’t be closer to the Ruins and convenience truly wins in this case.
Romelda Lakeside Retreat
A tranquil tented lodge nestled on the shores of Lake Mutirikwi, Romelda Lakeside Retreat is located about 40km away from the Ruins – accessed via a very scenic, 1.5-hour drive around the lakeshore. The setting offers a variety of other activities including fishing, canoeing and boat cruises, as well as rhino tracking on foot in a nearby reserve. This is a fantastic spot if you want to take your time exploring a little more of the region.
At the height of its dominance in the region, Great Zimbabwe was larger than London at the time, its architectural achievements and trading talents rivalling others on a global scale. Its creation, centuries of triumphant success and ultimate end are all fascinating to learn about on a visit to the ruins. Zimbabwe is calling…
