Toutswemogala Hill

Toutswemogala Hill is an elongated, flat-topped ironstone ridge in Botswana's Central District, renowned as a significant Iron Age archaeological site. From the 7th to the 19th century, the hill hosted a thriving settlement that served as the epicenter of the Toutswe tradition. This culture was characterized by a sophisticated social hierarchy and an economy primarily founded on cattle pastoralism. The remains of extensive cattle kraals at the center of the settlement provide evidence of the central role livestock played as a measure of wealth and social status. Archaeological excavations have recovered distinctive pottery styles, iron tools, and trade goods such as beads, suggesting connections to distant exchange networks. Toutswemogala was strategically situated on the ridge to offer defensive advantages and a commanding view of the surrounding grazing lands. The site signifies the emergence of complex political structures in the region before its decline in prominence around the 13th century. Today, the hill is a designated national monument and gives crucial insights into the early history of Tswana-speaking peoples.

History & landmarks

London Missionary Society Ruins

The red-brick ruins of the London Missionary Society church are the most iconic landmark of the abandoned Old Palapye settlement.

Serowe Royal Cemetery

Overlooking the village from a hill, the Royal Cemetery is a sacred landmark where generations of Bangwato royalty are laid to rest.

Moeng College Building

Moeng College is a historic educational institution established by Tshekedi Khama in a remote and scenic valley.

More places

Shumba Energy Coal Project

Shumba Energy is an energy developer focused on tapping into Botswana's vast coal reserves for power generation.

Palapye Glass Manufacturing Plant

Palapye hosts specialized manufacturing facilities, including those focusing on glass production utilizing regional resources.

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Morupule Coal Mine

Morupule Coal Mine is the primary source of coal in Botswana, fueling the national power supply.

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Morupule Power Station

The Morupule Power Station is the largest thermal power plant in Botswana.

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Matloutse River

A tributary in eastern Botswana.

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Old Palapye (Phalatswe)

Old Palapye was the 19th-century capital of the Bangwato, established by Kgosi Khama III before moving to Serowe.

Moremi Gorge

This scenic gorge in the Tswapong Hills is a sacred site for the local community, featuring permanent waterfalls and ancient shrines.

Serowe Rhino Sanctuary

A local reserve for preserving the rhino population.