Time Periods
Paleolithic
Mesolithic
Neolithic
Chalcolithic
Bronze Age
Iron Age
Classical Period
Post-Classical Period
Early Modern Period
Industrial Period
Contemporary Period
Time Periods
Paleolithic
Mesolithic
Neolithic
Chalcolithic
Bronze Age
Iron Age
Classical Period
Post-Classical Period
Early Modern Period
Industrial Period
Contemporary Period
Location
About
The Kweneng' ruins represent the remains of a significant pre-colonial Tswana capital in South Africa, active from the 14th to the 19th century CE. Located 30 km south of Johannesburg, the site spans 10 km by 2 km and includes numerous circular stone-walled family compounds. These ruins are attributed to the Sotho-Tswana people and were part of a larger network of settlements in the region. Kweneng' reached its zenith in the 18th century, featuring dense urban development and substantial cattle enclosures, indicating a thriving society with a focus on agriculture and trade. The abandonment of Kweneng' in the 1820s aligns with the Mfecane, a period of turmoil linked to colonial expansion. The site offers valuable insights into the socio-political and economic structures of the Tswana people prior to European contact.
Archaeological Features
Explore the unique architectural and cultural elements found at this historical site
Storage Structures
Defensive Structures
Animal Husbandry Features
Domestic and Habitation Structures
Historical Timeline
Journey through time and discover key events in this site's archaeological history
Plan Your Visit
Details
- Country
- South Africa
- Source
- Wikipedia
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