(Shaka) Zulu -sites

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Without a doubt, King Shaka is the best known and most populair Zulu who ever existed. Despite countless books and writings, even mini-series, Shaka remains a mythical person who falls among the most impressive generals but also among those who became known as a bloodthirsty tiran. What is certain is that with his new form of war, he defeated countless other tribes and built up the largest Zulu empire that has ever existed.

He changed tactics and technique and let his soldiers practice this to the sorrow with success. In 1828 Shaka was murdered by his own half-brothers who raised up and fought for power together afterwords. The Zulus battled first after the death of Shaka with each other, after which they collided with the Boers (in 1838). In 1879 a cruel war was waged with the British when the empire was annexed.

Eshowe was the city where four Zulu kings resided; Shaka, Mpande and Cetshwayo, (Dinizulu); this was also the place where (in Dlinza forest) Shaka kept his wives hidden during the Zulu wars. It was Cetshwayo's fortress before he went to Ondini; also this one was totally destroyed during the war with the British. The Brits built in 1883 the fort "Nongqayi" as police station for the barefoot Zulu police (the Nongqayi) who had to assist the British in an emergency case. Eshowe became the new administrative center of the newly acquired British area. 

In the forest you can make beautiful walks and it is claimed that some paths were built by British soldiers when they had the power here. The Nongqayi fort with its three towers, which is also situated in the forest, now serves as The historical museum Zululand. Next to it is the Vukani Zulu cultural museum where you can view Zulu art based on the traditional Zulu culture.

Finally, there is a butterfly garden. You can buy a combi ticket. SEE Travel stories Eshowe. If you travel by public transport you can best come to Eshowe from Empangeni on the busy N2 (near Richard's Bay). From here you can drive to Eshowe in an hour with a combi (55R).

In Kwabulawayo (Shaka's kraal) was once Shaka's capital. Coward's Bush - this was the place where Zulu warriors who had lost their spear in battle or had wounds in their back were executed; here is a small memorial. Kwabulawayo lies with Cowards Bush which lies opposite, between the through paved roads R34 and R66, on the R230. To my knowledge, not accessible by public transport.

After the battle of Ndonkdakusuka in 1856, in which the future Zulu king Cetswayo (then prince) defeated his brother, he built a military camp which he called Gingindlovu (elephant snake); this because he saw his brother as the biggest opponent. Nowadays here is the gathering point of people for the Shembe church in Judea behold what a traditional togetherness is (is seen as culture highlight of the Zulus).

You can see parts of an old Zulu fortress which is now part of the new police station. It is possible to take a taxi to Ladysmith from Newcastle in an hour.