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Allan Wilson Memorial
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Historical site
The Allan Wilson Memorial, located atop Malindidzimu in the Matobo Hills, is an imposing monument dedicated to the Shangani Patrol. It commemorates Major Allan Wilson and his 33 men who died in 1893 while fighting the forces of King Lobengula near the Shangani River. Designed by Sir Herbert Baker, the monument is a massive stone structure adorned with bronze reliefs depicting the fallen soldiers. The inscription 'To Brave Men' honors their stand during the First Matabele War. The remains of the patrol were moved several times before being interred in 1904 at this location, which Cecil Rhodes famously named 'World's View'. The memorial exists within a complex historical landscape, surrounded by the sacred Matobo Hills. Today, it stands as a significant, albeit controversial, symbol of Zimbabwe's colonial military history and historical narrative.
- Location: Zimbabwe
- Top sights: Pomongwe Cave · Matobo National Park
- Nearby: Plumtree (80 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Apr, Aug, Sep.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 23 | 23 | 22 | 20 | 17 | 15 | 14 | 17 | 21 | 24 | 24 | 24 |
| Rain mm | 111 | 114 | 77 | 32 | 7 | 4 | 2 | 1 | 8 | 27 | 81 | 123 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The Allan Wilson Memorial is an open-air monument accessible freely at any time. It stands on the site where the Shangani Patrol met its end in 1893 and consists of a granite obelisk.
Typical hours
As an outdoor monument, there are no opening hours; it can be visited around the clock. Best visited during daylight to read the inscriptions.
Photography
The obelisk and surrounding landscape offer good photo subjects, especially at sunset. The commemorative plaques on the base are historically rich and detailed.
Time needed
Visiting the memorial takes about 15 to 20 minutes to pay respects and read the plaques. Those wanting to explore the surroundings should allow more time.
Combine with
Combine this visit with other historical sites in the region, such as King Lobengula's Grave or Matobo National Park. The area is rich in 19th-century history.
Getting there
The memorial is located remotely near the Shangani River, about 100 kilometres from Bulawayo. Best reached with a 4x4 vehicle as roads are partly unpaved.
Insider tip
Read up on the history of the Shangani Patrol and the First Matabele War beforehand to understand the site's significance. Bring plenty of water and insect repellent as there are no facilities in the wilderness.
Geography
Facts
- The Shangani Patrol was killed on December 4, 1893.
- The monument was designed by the architect Sir Herbert Baker.
- The bronze panels were created by the sculptor John Tweed.
- The soldiers were originally buried near the Great Zimbabwe Ruins.
- The remains were moved to their final site in Matopos in 1904.
- The inscription 'To Brave Men' was chosen by Cecil Rhodes.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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Sights in the town Allan Wilson Memorial (2)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What does the Allan-Wilson memorial honor?
It commemorates Major Allan Wilson and his men who fell in 1893.
Is the memorial open daily?
Being an outdoor monument, it is accessible at any time.
Is an entrance fee required?
No, access to the monument is free.
Is the monument easily reachable on foot?
Yes, it is located in an area accessible to visitors.
Is picnicking allowed at the monument?
It is not recommended out of respect for the memorial site.
Allan Wilson Memorial: where is it located?
Allan Wilson Memorial is located in Zimbabwe.
Allan Wilson Memorial: what is there to see?
Highlights include Pomongwe Cave, Matobo National Park.
Allan Wilson Memorial: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Apr, Aug, Sep.
Allan Wilson Memorial: why is it worth visiting?
The Allan Wilson Memorial, located atop Malindidzimu in the Matobo Hills, is an imposing monument dedicated to the Shangani Patrol.
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History & landmarks
More places
Cecil Rhodes Grave
The grave of the British imperialist is located on a hill he named 'World's View'.
Matobo Hills Rock Art
The granite hills are known for one of the world's largest concentrations of San rock art.
King Mzilikazi's Grave
The secret cave grave of the founder of the Ndebele Empire.
Mangwe Pass Memorial
A memorial for the first European settlers who entered the country through this pass.
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Plumtree Inland Cargo Terminal
A crucial logistical waypoint for freight moving between Zimbabwe and Botswana.
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Fort Rixon
Former military post of the British colonial troops from the late 19th century.
Fort Tuli
The first fort of the British South Africa Company in present-day Zimbabwe.