Ingombe Ilede

Ing'ombe Ilede is a significant archaeological site located near the Zambezi and Lusitu rivers in Zambia. This site was a prominent trade center around the 16th century, dealing in goods such as salt, copper, slaves, gold, and ivory in exchange for items from the Indian Ocean trade, like glass beads and cowrie shells. Excavations have revealed a wealth of artifacts, including copper crosses and gold-beaded necklaces, indicating a complex social structure with evidence of trade and craft specialization. The site's occupation spans from the 7th to 17th centuries CE, with its peak during the 16th century as an important node in regional trade networks. The presence of rich burials, including those with copper and iron goods, highlights the social stratification and the role of Ing'ombe Ilede in the broader economic and cultural exchanges in south-central Africa.