Great Zimbabwe's Mambo Chisamuturu and the Cattle Raid of 1260

Great Zimbabwe: The Lost African Kingdom of Stone — Fexingo History · Jun 6, 2026 · 6m · transcript

In 1260, Great Zimbabwe's Mambo Chisamuturu faced a devastating cattle raid by the rival Torwa kingdom. This episode explores how the Mambo rebuilt his herd through a daring counter-raid, the economic and spiritual significance of cattle in Shona society, and how this event reshaped the balance of power in Southern Africa. We delve into the role of the mhondoro (royal spirits), the use of cattle as lobola (bride price), and the political maneuvering that ensured Zimbabwe's recovery. Learn about the danga (royal cattle enclosures), the zebu and Sanga breeds, and how a single raid…