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South Africa

Schoemansdal, Limpopo

Voortrekker settlement with defensive structures

Time Periods

Paleolithic

Paleolithic

Mesolithic

Mesolithic

Neolithic

Neolithic

Chalcolithic

Chalcolithic

Bronze Age

Bronze Age

Iron Age

Iron Age

Classical Period

Classical Period

Post-Classical Period

Post-Classical Period

Early Modern Period

Early Modern Period

Industrial Period

Industrial Period

Contemporary Period

Contemporary Period

Location

About

Schoemansdal, initially known as Zoutpansbergdorp, was an early Voortrekker settlement in the 19th century CE, located 16 km west of present-day Louis Trichardt in South Africa. Established in 1848, it was a hub for trade, particularly in ivory, and had notable defensive structures including redoubts and bastions. The town also featured a church and a structured layout with roads and irrigation systems. Despite its promising beginnings, the settlement faced internal discord and external threats, leading to its evacuation and destruction by Venda militants in 1867. The site holds significant archaeological value, showcasing the early colonial efforts of the Voortrekkers and their interactions with indigenous groups.

Gallery

Explore photographs of ancient structures, artifacts, and archaeological excavations at Schoemansdal, Limpopo

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Archaeological Features

Explore the unique architectural and cultural elements found at this historical site

Defensive Structures

RedoubtsBastions

Water Management Features

Irrigation Canals

Religious and Ritual Structures

Churches

Domestic and Habitation Structures

Towns

Transportation and Communication Structures

Roads

Historical Timeline

Journey through time and discover key events in this site's archaeological history

Plan Your Visit

Details

Country
South Africa
Source
Wikipedia