The Great Zimbabwe civilization is one of the most largest and iconic settlements in Africa with significant cultural innovations. It can be categorized in three: the Great Enclosure, Hill Ruin and Valley Ruins.
Mining
The Great Zimbabwe was coined as the iron age capital. It was the chief metropolitan center for miners and had the most extensive gold workings. There are some mines found in the area. The people traded with gold. The trade greatly contributed to the wealth of the civilization. It is also theorized that the rulers may have gained control over gold production and trade.
Agriculture
Grain and other crops were cultivated on the middle and high plains. Large cattle herds were farmed in the lower plains and woodlands. The management of livestock (cattle, goats, sheep) led the civilization from subsistence agriculture to mining and trade. The majority of the civilization's wealth was from cattle herding.
Medicine
Famine and water shortages became an issue after population started to grow faster and climate started to change. Overgrazing and drought caused the soil to become dissipated. The civilization heavily relied on religion. The King was believed to have extraordinary divine powers. Diviners and traditional doctors had fearsome legends and myths.
Weaving
Weaving was a significant activity for the
people. Soapstone and pottery spindle whorls were found in the site. The women
made blankets from bark cloths made with twisted threads from softened inner
barks of trees. The fibers were finger-woven without loom
Metallogy
Bronze, iron, copper metal working was noted. Evidence showed that the people worked with iron alloys and gold melting. The abundance of gold led to designing gold beads, jewelries and ornaments. Crucibles and foundations for metal working was found. Artifacts such as finished metal objects, iron gongs, iron and copper wire, bronze spear heads were also noted.
