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A glimpse into the past at Blaauwboschkraal Stone Ruins

A glimpse into the past at Blaauwboschkraal Stone Ruins

A glimpse into the past at Blaauwboschkraal Stone Ruins

A glimpse into the past at Blaauwboschkraal Stone Ruins

Out on the Schoemanskloof road, just 10km before Emgwenya (Waterval Boven), lies the Blaauwboschkraal Stone Ruins, a captivating archaeological site that holds a rich historical and cultural significance. These stone circles have intrigued researchers, historians, and tourists from all over the world and as usual, the Sociably team could not help but set out to investigate and explore more about the origin of this site and the rituals that may have been conducted here. 

The Blaauwboschkraal Stone Ruins was declared a national monument on 18 April 1975 and is widely believed to be built by the Bokoni people in the early 1600’s. It includes three separate circular stone structures laid out in a detailed manner. The biggest and most interesting circle measures approximately 40 meters in diameter and has two inner circles. The first inner circle has a diameter of about 26 meters, and the innermost circle measures around 8 meters. Each circle is enclosed by thick stone walls, creating a sense of sacred enclosure.

The function and purpose of the circles remain a matter of debate amongst scholars. However, there are several theories based on comparative studies and the remnants found at the site. It is believed that the outer circle was primarily used for a variety of communal activities. It possibly served as a meeting place for clans or tribes, providing a space for important gatherings, announcements, and discussions. The first inner circle’s location suggests that it may have been used for rituals, ceremonies, or observances of celestial events. Some archaeologists propose that it could have been a sacred space for ancestral worship or possibly an initiation site. Lastly, the most inner circle, located at the heart of the ruins, is believed to have been a highly revered area and might’ve been used for the most sacred rituals or the burial ceremonies of esteemed individuals within the community.

The other two freestanding and much smaller circles is believed to have served a purpose separate from the ceremonies and rituals conducted in the largest circle but due to limited information available, the exact function of these circles remain speculative.

Although there is not much concrete evidence to prove what exactly happened at the Blaauwboschkraal stone ruins, the presence of certain features within the circles provides insights into possible ceremonies. Excavations have revealed multiple small pits within the circles, suggestive of offerings and sacrifices. These pits may have played a role in rituals aimed at appeasing ancestral spirits or seeking protection from natural forces. Further to this, the positioning of the circles in relation to significant celestial events, such as solstices or equinoxes, indicates a potential astronomical significance. Some theories suggest that rituals conducted here may have been linked to specific celestial alignments, facilitating connections with the spiritual realm.

The origin of the Blaauwboschkraal Stone Ruins continues to be a captivating mystery with some individuals even suggesting that it was built under the influence of ancient extraterrestrial beings. This theory stems from the precision and mathematical complexity in the formation of the ruins, leading some to believe that advanced knowledge beyond human capabilities was involved.

Wherever the true origin stems from, everyone can agree that the ruins bear testament to the rich history and spirituality of the Mpumalanga region. It offers a glimpse into the lives and beliefs of those who constructed them. Speculation will probably continue for many years to come but ongoing research and archeological discoveries will eventually unravel the mysteries concealed within this captivating site.

We love the history of our beautiful province ♥

Ps. If you know of an interesting historical site and want to know more about it, please get in touch! We would love to go explore and write all about it!

Resources:

  • Article by Alex Schoeman (1996): “The Blyberg & Blaauwboschkraal Stone Ruins”
  • Book by John Parkington (2008): “Exploring Ancient Monuments: Mpumalanga”
  • Book by Johan Heine & Michael Tellinger (2010): “Stone Circles of South Africa: Two very different perspectives”
  • Book by David Hatcher Childress (2011): “Lost Cities and Ancient Mysteries of African & Arabia” 
  • Article by John S. Michael (2016): “The Astronomy of Blaauwboschkraal Circles, South Africa”