Bakone Malapa Museum

credit: https://www.sahistory.org.za/place/bakone-malapa-northern-sotho-open-air-museum-polokwane

Table of Contents

Introduction

Nestled outside the bustling CBD of Polokwane, the Bakone Malapa Museum is an open-air living museum that provides visitors with an enriching experience of South African history and culture. Steeped in the traditions of the BaSotho people, a highly sophisticated sub-group of the Northern Sotho tribe, the museum offers an insight into their daily life, traditions, and practices.

About the Museum

The Bakone Malapa Museum is a reconstructed village that showcases the daily life of the Bakone people, a sub-group of the Northern Sotho Tribe. The name Bakone comes from Bakone ba Matlala a’ Thaba, a Northern Sotho clan that lived in the area in the 17th century. Malapa, on the other hand, means homestead in the Northern Sotho language.

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The museum comprises two traditional homesteads, which house exhibits that provide insights into Northern Sotho history. Visitors can expect to see how the Bakone people lived about 280 years ago. You will be able to observe the process of how fire is made, how beer is brewed, and how maize is ground. You will also have the opportunity to watch traditional handcraft demonstrations such as woodcarving, pottery, basketry, and beadwork. The craft shop sells locally produced crafts at a reasonable price, making it the perfect spot to purchase souvenirs for loved ones back home.

Interesting Facts

The Bakone Malapa Museum is not only a showcase of the Bakone people’s culture but also a testament to South African history.
The area surrounding the museum has evidence of Stone Age settlements dating back 20,000 years, and archaeological digs show that the Ndebele and Shangaan people also lived in the area.
The village has been reconstructed in a style that was typical about 250 years ago, making it a perfect representation of the Bakone culture.

Physical Location

Conclusion

The Bakone Malapa Museum is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in learning about the rich culture and history of South Africa. It provides visitors with a hands-on experience of the Bakone people’s way of life, making it an excellent opportunity to learn about a sub-group of the Northern Sotho people. The warm hospitality and knowledge of the local guides will make your experience unforgettable.