Cairo, Egypt
Discover Great Zimbabwe, the extraordinary stone city built by Shona ancestors between the 11th and 15th centuries. Explore its Great Enclosure, gold trade, Indian Ocean connections and enduring legacy in African history.
Ancient African Civilizations Documentary
Lonely Planet on Instagram: “Nelson Mandela saw Ethiopia as the African mothership. That’s because Ethiopia strains credulity with its mythic history, mosaic of ancient…”
A richly illustrated timeline exploring the rise and evolution of Africa’s great kingdoms and empires. It begins with ancient civilizations like Nubia (Kush) and Aksum, highlighting early trade, culture, and leadership. The journey continues through powerful medieval empires such as Ghana, Mali, Songhai, and Great Zimbabwe, known for wealth, learning, and expansive trade networks. It then moves into early modern states like Benin, the Asante Empire, Dahomey, and the Zulu Kingdom—showcasing military strength, cultural achievements, and political systems across centuries of African history.
Ancient African Civilizations Map
Karnak Temple is a complex of 11 temples, dating back more than 4,500 years. To be the oldest place of worship known to history, Karnak Temple is one of Egypt's most important archaeological landmarks and the most famous in the world.
About 1075- The Kingdom of Mapungubwe is founded in Southern Africa, at the confluence of two rivers. The name means "Hill of Jackals". The kingdom will be the first stage in development that will culminate in the creation of the Kingdom of Zimbabwe to the north in the 13th century. These states are built on gold trading links to the East African coast.
Ancient African Civilizations Grade 8
Discover the Mali Empire and the extraordinary story of Mansa Musa, the legendary ruler whose wealth and famous pilgrimage to Mecca amazed the medieval world. Explore Mali’s gold, trade, Timbuktu and its powerful legacy in African history.
