The Battlefields - Legends of the Zulu Kingdom
$7.81 | £15.53 | €12.41 | | Time: 21:41 |  |
Red Soldier's March
This land in KwaZulu-Natal is ancient. Sketches, paintings,
engravings and tools of the Bushmen testify to early and
long occupation of today's battlefields. By the 18th
century tribesmen had given this area the name “Honey
Mountains” for life was sweet.
A lofty world of vast panoramas, this area can claim many
titles: “No Man’s Land”, “The Turbulent
Frontier”, “Crossroads of South African History”, “Land of
the Covenant”, “Land of forts”, “Land of Missions”.
Destiny marched with men along these winding roads and
trough its steep, narrow passes where bloody battles were
fought between Zulu, Boer and Brit. Boer confronted Zulu in
1838 and broke King Dingane’s Impi’s at Blood River. Proud
Imperial Britain bit the dust at Isandlwana on 22 January
1879. That same day reputation was to be salvaged at Rorkes
Drift. 11 Victoria Crosses were awarded - the highest
number for a single engagement.
The initial battles of the Anglo boer War of 1879 are world
renowned. However, there are more, not as well known, but
as interesting to visit. At fugitives Drift you will find
the memorial to Lts Coghill and Melvill, who saved the
Queen's Colours. From there you will have a view down into
the Buffalo River valley where the survivors from
Isandlwana struggled to cross the swollen river to reach
Rorke's Drift. With a guide make your way to the heights of
Hlobane, not only a battlefield but, with a tremendous
history of coal mining, Kambula and Intombi Drift.
At the centre of this route, Dundee has a varied history
which is depicted in the impressive Talana Museum, set in a
20 acre heritage park, on the outskirts of the town.
History has been brought alive by evocative museums on
site. Hire the resident museum guide to guide you around
and bring the events of yesteryear alive.
Follow in the footsteps of red and khaki clad soldiers.
Hire a guide or do it yourself.
zoom Isandlwana |
zoom Rorkes Drift Museum the site of the hospital where the famous battle took place. |
zoom Memorial to the Zulu fallen, Isandlwana. |
Copyright © Tourism KwaZulu-Natal