THE CHARM OF ZIMBABWE
Zimbabwe is home to beautiful National Parks, diverse cultures, harsh and celebrated historical monuments and the mighty Victoria Falls. The country has had a troubled past but from this, they have grown. The future of beautiful Zimbabwe is brighter than ever.
Zimbabwe’s Charm is in the beauty of its people, history, scenic beauty and wildlife that calls this country home.
1. Zimbabwe is Home to Five UNESCO World Heritage Sites
Zimbabwe offers its travelers both scenic and historical adventure. Located within the remarkable country, you can find five UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Based on their historical, cultural and natural importance, these sites have been named World Heritage sites. Not only do they tell a story about Zimbabwe, but these unique sites also support local communities with visits from travelers from around the world.
1) Matobo Hills
2) Victoria Falls
3) Mana Pools National Park
4) The Great Zimbabwe Ruins
2. Zimbabwe has Sixteen Offical Languages
Steeped in culture and history, Zimbabwe has over sixteen official languages, the world record for the most official languages in one country. To clarify, this is not the record for the most spoken languages in one country but rather the record for the most native languages recognized in one country.
The sixteen official languages include Chewa, Chibarwe, English, Kalanga, Koi-san, Nambya, Ndau, Ndebele, Shangani, Shona, Sign Language, Sotho, Tonga, Tswana, Venda and Xhosa.
3. Two Significant Water Bodies are Found in Zimbabwe
Victoria Falls and Lake Kariba are two of the largest water bodies found in Zimbabwe and Zambia. Both attractions share their borders with the two neighboring countries. Lake Kariba is the worlds largest man-made dam and reservoir. While Victoria Falls is not the highest or longest waterfall in the world, it is classified as the worlds largest sheet of falling water – this is based on the combination of the fall’s length and width.
4. Once an Ancient City
Built between 1100 and 1450 AD, Zimbabwe was home to the ancient stone structures of what was once known as Great Zimbabwe. The medieval city was once part of a large and wealthy global trading network before it was abandoned in the 15th century.
In the Shona Language, Zimbabwe means ‘stone houses’ – fitting when we consider the historical impact Great Zimbabwe had on the country. Zimbabwe’s Charm can be seen in the ancient ruins that is now a World Heritage Site.
5. Sadza is a Popular Meal in Zimbabwe
Translated from Shona, Sadza is a cooked maize meal, usually eaten once a day by local Zimbabweans. The delicious porridge is made by mixing corn with water and is enjoyed for lunch or dinner. To make the meal more substantial, the Sadza will is mixed with spinach, meat, beans or coagulated milk, locally called mukaka wakakora.
Don’t be shy to try the traditional porridge during your journey to Zimbabwe!
6. The Important Birds of Zimbabwe
Each country has its identity, culture and history. Unique symbols of each country are shown in various ways. It can be seen in the country’s flag or coat of arms. In Zimbabwe, two distinctive birds are symbolic of the country’s history and culture.
Zimbabwe’s National Bird – seen on their flag and coat of arms – is believed to be both the Bateleur Eagle and the Fish Eagle. In the Shona culture, the two eagles are important features as they work together. The Bateleur Eagle is a messenger from Mwari (God), while the Fish Eagle is seen as the ancestors. Both these birds are seen on the original totem of the Shona Tribe.
Zimbabwe is fascinating and should be celebrated as a country with so many possibilities.
After all, it is the World of Wonders!
This is Zimbabwe’s Charm
