Masorini - Place of Secrets

In the Kruger National Park, close to the Phalaborwa Gate is an archeological site which was inhabited during the Iron Age by a group of people who were part of the BaPhalaborwa clan. These people had discovered that this area was rich in iron-ore and so they made their home here on this hill known as Masorini. They learned to smelt and manufacture iron and then sold and traded with other people and tribes. How they made the iron artifacts was a well-guarded secret and the site of their village was kept secret and well-guarded. Once they had manufactured enough items, a few men would set off to sell these goods - they would often travel far and be away for a long time. So closely guarded was the secret of the iron that the women of the clan were not allowed to marry anyone from outside the village so that they would not be able to take the knowledge of the iron-making to any other people.

Archeologists have restored the village and the story of this site is a fascinating one.  

Masorini Hill which was inhabited and closely guarded by the BaPhalaborwa people.

There is a small museum at the foot of the hill which gives a brief history of the site and also has exhibits of some of the artifacts (pic below) found at the site.

It is interesting to go on the guided tour of the site and see how these people lived and to hear about their history.

Beginning our guided walk.

Huts are situated on different levels on the hill. 

Pieces of rock containing iron-ore - they are actually quite heavy for their size!

A reconstructed smelting furnace where the iron ore was melted and then shaped into tools, arrow-heads, etc.

This hut was home to one of the chief's wives. (The artifact on the right is a drum.)

Walking to the huts that are situated higher up.

The "look-out" hut was situated above the rest of the village.

This was the council meeting place and the "seat" you see almost in the center of the picture, was the Chief's throne.

Masorini, Place of Secrets, is altogether a fascinating place to visit.