Interesting Facts About Zimbabwe: Exploring The Untold Stories
Zimbabwe, a southern African country known for its diverse wildlife, fascinating landscapes, and vibrant culture, is a country that holds many intriguing stories that are often overlooked. In this article, we will be exploring some of the interesting facts about Zimbabwe that are rarely talked about.
The Great Zimbabwe Ruins
The Great Zimbabwe Ruins, located in southeastern Zimbabwe, are a UNESCO World Heritage Site that date back to the 11th century. The ruins were once a thriving city that housed over 18,000 people and were believed to be the seat of power for the Kingdom of Zimbabwe. Despite being over 900 years old, the ruins still stand tall and are a testament to the architectural prowess of the ancient Zimbabweans.
Zimbabwe's Victoria Falls
Victoria Falls, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, is located on the Zimbabwe-Zambia border. The falls are over 1,700 meters wide and 108 meters tall, making them the largest waterfall in the world. The falls are a popular tourist attraction and offer a breathtaking view of the Zambezi River as it plunges into the Batoka Gorge.
Lake Kariba
Lake Kariba is the largest man-made lake in the world by volume and is located on the border between Zimbabwe and Zambia. The lake was created in the 1950s when the Kariba Dam was constructed on the Zambezi River. The lake is home to various species of fish, including the Nile crocodile and the tiger fish, making it a popular fishing destination.
The Balancing Rocks
The Balancing Rocks, located in the Matopos National Park, are a geological wonder that has fascinated visitors for centuries. The rocks, which are believed to be over 2 billion years old, are made of granite and stand up to 12 meters tall. What makes the rocks interesting is their ability to balance on top of each other despite their massive size.
The Zimbabwean Dollar
The Zimbabwean dollar, also known as Zimdollars, was once the official currency of Zimbabwe. However, due to hyperinflation, the currency was abandoned in 2009 and replaced with a multi-currency system that includes the US dollar, the South African rand, and the Botswana pula. Despite this, the Zimbabwean dollar remains a symbol of the country's tumultuous economic history.
The Gonarezhou National Park
The Gonarezhou National Park is Zimbabwe's second-largest national park and is home to various species of wildlife, including elephants, lions, and leopards. The park is located in the southeastern part of Zimbabwe and is known for its rugged terrain and stunning landscapes.
The Zimbabwean National Anthem
The Zimbabwean national anthem, "Blessed be the Land of Zimbabwe," was adopted in 1994 after Zimbabwe gained independence. The anthem is sung in Shona, Ndebele, and English, reflecting the country's diverse cultural heritage.
The Zimbabwean Flag
The Zimbabwean flag, adopted in 1980 after Zimbabwe gained independence, features seven horizontal stripes in green, yellow, red, black, red, yellow, and green. The stripes represent the country's natural resources, cultural heritage, and political struggles. The white triangle on the left side of the flag represents peace, while the bird in the center of the triangle is a representation of the stone-carved birds found at the Great Zimbabwe Ruins.
The Matobo Hills
The Matobo Hills, located in the Matobo National Park, are a series of granite hills that are over 2 billion years old. The hills are home to various species of wildlife, including the endangered black rhinoceros. They are also home to many ancient rock paintings that date back over 13,000 years.
The Zimbabwean Cuisine
Zimbabwean cuisine is a fusion of traditional African dishes and British influences. Some popular dishes include sadza (a maize meal that is similar to polenta), nyama (meat), and muriwo (vegetables). Zimbabwean cuisine is also known for its use of exotic meats, such as crocodile and impala.
The Zimbabwean People
The Zimbabwean people are known for their warmth and hospitality. Despite the country's tumultuous history, the people have remained resilient and have a strong sense of community. Zimbabweans are also known for their love of music, with genres such as sungura and mbira being popular throughout the country.
The Zimbabwean Education System
The Zimbabwean education system is one of the best in Africa, with a literacy rate of over 90%. The country boasts several top-notch universities, including the University of Zimbabwe and the National University of Science and Technology. Education is highly valued in Zimbabwe, and parents often make significant sacrifices to ensure that their children receive a good education.
The Zimbabwean Sports
Zimbabweans are passionate about sports, with soccer being the most popular sport in the country. The Zimbabwean national soccer team, known as the Warriors, has had some notable achievements, including qualifying for the 2004 Africa Cup of Nations. Zimbabweans are also known for their love of cricket, with the Zimbabwean cricket team having participated in several international tournaments.
The Zimbabwean Art
Zimbabwean art is known for its vibrant colors and intricate designs. Traditional Shona sculptures, which are made from stone, are popular throughout the country and are considered to be some of the best in the world. Zimbabwean art is also known for its use of recycled materials, with artists often creating sculptures from discarded metal and plastic.
The Zimbabwean Politics
Zimbabwean politics have been marked by controversy and turmoil. The country gained independence in 1980 after a long and bloody struggle against colonial rule. However, the country has been plagued by political corruption and economic instability, leading to widespread protests and demonstrations. Despite this, Zimbabweans remain hopeful for a brighter future and are working towards building a better society.
In conclusion, Zimbabwe is a country that is rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. From the Great Zimbabwe Ruins to Victoria Falls, there is no shortage of fascinating stories to discover. Zimbabweans are a resilient people who have overcome many challenges, and their warmth and hospitality make the country a truly special place.
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