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Zimbabwe

Matobo National Park

Granite kopjes, rock paintings, diverse flora and fauna

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

About

Matobo National Park, located in southern Zimbabwe, is a region of significant archaeological interest due to its ancient granite formations and rich historical artifacts. The area is renowned for its extraordinary rock formations and over 3,000 registered rock art sites created by the San people, revealing a cultural history dating from 320 CE to 500 CE. The park also contains archaeological evidence of human activity dating back to the Middle Paleolithic, including tools and a skeleton from 42,000 BCE. The park's diverse ecological environment supports a wide range of flora and fauna, including rare and endemic species. Its historical and cultural significance is further underscored by the presence of sacred sites and burial grounds, such as the controversial burial site of Cecil Rhodes. Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Matobo National Park offers a unique glimpse into the past human-environment interaction and cultural expressions through its preserved rock art and geological features.

Gallery

Explore photographs of ancient structures, artifacts, and archaeological excavations at Matobo National Park

FileAerial_view_Gordon_Park_Matobo_Hills.jpg
FileMaleme_Dam.jpg
FileMaleme_Rest_Camp.jpg

Archaeological Features

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

Burial and Funerary Structures

Graves

Artistic and Decorative Features

Cave Paintings

Domestic and Habitation Structures

Caves

Environmental and Natural Features

Rock SheltersModified Caves

Historical Timeline

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

Plan Your Visit

Details

Country
Zimbabwe
Source
Wikipedia