Laser technology, proven successful in revealing ancient Maya cities, revealed a southern African city that prospered between the 15th and 19th centuries.
Students from the University of the Witwatersrand made the discovery using LiDAR technology that allowed them to accurately map the landscape and see dwellings under extensive overgrowth among the Suikerbosrand hills, approximately 60 kilometers south of Johannesburg.
The results showed a large city, around 20 square kilometers, about five times the size of Ur, the famous ancient city in Mesopotamia.
Archaeologists were able to estimate the age of the city, which existed for about four centuries. It also allowed them to determine the relative wealth and status of each household. The city’s core also includes two large, stone-walled structures that have a combined area of around 10,000 square meters; they’re believed to be cattle enclosures that could have held 10,000 animals.
The information shows the city is likely one of several built by a Tswana-speaking population in the region now northern South Africa.
Read This Next
Take a Self-Guided Cycling Tour Through Italy
Destinations / Europe
Apr 26, 2024#TrazeeTravel
Insta FeedDestinations / North America
Apr 25, 2024Celebrate May at Memphis in May International Festival
With May around the corner, it's time to put some last-minute, can’t-miss activities on your radar. Memphis, Tennessee, “Home of the Blues,” is set to host its annual Memphis in May International Festival, featuring the first-ever RiverBeat Music Festival, World Championship Barbeque Cooking Contest, a marathon along the Mississippi River and more.
Sponsored Content
Travel Tips to Help Protect Your Health and Your Trip
Five Tips to Help Minimize Potential Travel Problems
Hotel
Apr 25, 2024JW Marriott Hotel Nairobi Opens
JW Marriott’s second property in Kenya recently opened: JW Marriott Hotel Nairobi stands as the tallest hotel in the country at 35 stories. Located in the Westlands commercial district, JW Marriott Hotel Nairobi boasts 315 guestrooms, several dining destinations, a Spa by JW, a swimming pool, a fitness center and eight event spaces. A sky bar and lounge, as well as 51 serviced apartments, will open later this year.
Destinations / North America
Apr 24, 2024How to See the Northern Lights in Alberta, Canada, This Year
You may have heard 2024 is going to be one of the best years to see the northern lights and, if you’re interested in experiencing this phenomenon for yourself, you likely have been thinking about making the trip to Iceland or Scandinavia — notable destinations for northern lights viewing. However, you don’t have to leave North America to take in the Aurora Borealis. Alberta offers plenty of spots and ways to see the northern lights.
Sponsored Content
Unearth Seoul’s Hidden Gems
Filled with hidden treasures waiting to be discovered, Seoul invites travelers to unearth its many gems, and Seoul Tourism Organization is here to help travelers do just that. Through thoughtfully created initiatives like the Theme Tourism County Competition, Seoul Tourism Organization works closely with local districts to identify and showcase what makes each district unique and charming in all seasons.
Hotel
Apr 24, 2024Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa Announces Nashville Nights Songwriter’s Series
Aloha, Nashville! Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa recently announced the launch of its Nashville Nights songwriter’s series featuring artists from Music City. Once a month for the next six months, guests can experience an evening of live music with the inaugural show scheduled for April 27 and featuring Gracee Shriver and Noel Bisesti.
ShareThis