Vhembe – a walk through history

Northern Limpopo’s Vhembe district brings together the splendour of the Soutpansberg Mountains and the unique culture and artistic skills of the Venda people, reports Nteboheng Phakisi…. CULTURE and history buffs will delight in a tour through northern Limpopo’s Vhembe district, which has several cultural sites dating back as far as the 11th century. A highlight for visitors is undoubtedly Mapungubwe National Park and Cultural Site, declared a World Heritage Site for showcasing the first indigenous Southern African kingdom established 900 years ago. A viewing deck overlooks the confluence of the Shashe and Limpopo rivers. The park is also home to the giant baobab tree and all the main game species including lion, leopard, elephant and rhino. Game viewing and cultural tours can be arranged and guests can spend a night at the Limpopo Forest Tented Camp in the forest. The Dzata Museum, located within the Dzata Ruins between Makhado and Thohoyandou, marks the first settlement of the Venda people. The site was occupied around the 16th century and still has its original Zimbabwe-style stone walls. The museum depicts the cultural life of the Venda people and a site guide will recount the story of Ngomalungundu (the holy drum of the Venda people). The northernmost sector of the Kruger National Park borders Vhembe district and now forms part of the Great Limpopo Transfrontier Park, linking it with other game parks in Zimbabwe and Mozambique. The park is home to the Big Five, as well as baobabs, fever trees, knob thorns, marula and mopane trees. Several sites in Vhembe are sacred according to Venda tradition. When visiting Lake Fundudzi, newcomers must be prepared to perform a ritual where they must turn their backs to the lake and bend down to view the water between their legs. The Venda people believe the lake is home to the great python god who takes good care of their crops and whom they honour annually by pouring sacrificial beer in the water. Phiphidi Waterfalls, a burial site for royalty, is also believed to be a sacred site where the Venda people can talk to their ancestors. Other highlights in Vhembe district include The Big Tree, the largest baobab tree in the country dating back more than 3 500 years, as well as Noria Mabaso’s sculpture studio where visitors can buy clay sculptures made by this renowned local crafter. Nteboheng Phakisi (ntebohengp@nowmedia.co.za)