African Journal of Philosophy and Religious Studies

African Journal of Philosophy and Religious Studies ISSN 1621-4587 Vol. 6 (1), pp. 001-010, January, 2020. © International Scholars Journals

Review

Convergence of diverse religions at Zimbabwe heritage sites: The case of great Zimbabwe National monument

*¹Munyaradzi Mawere, ²Munyaradzi Elton Sagiya and Tapiwa R. Mubaya

¹Associate Professor at Universidade Pedagogica, Mozambique

²Archaeologist at Great Zimbabwe World Heritage Site

³Master of Arts Degree in Heritage Studies from the University of Zimbabwe

Accepted 13 September, 2019

Abstract

Cultural heritage sites in Africa have since time immemorial attracted diverse spiritual beliefs, practices, political and socio-economic activities thereby creating cultural remains and settlements now referred to as heritage. The formation and conservation of heritage sites has always been a welcome idea given that they significantly help conserving the African culture and exhibiting the wisdom of Africa that for centuries has been overshadowed and subjugated by western imperialism. Yet due to the legacy of colonialism and the consequences of globalization, heritage sites in many parts of Africa have become centers of rivalry, antagonism and rarely centers for mutual conversations in so far as religion is concerned. In post independence Zimbabwe for instance, religion along with political, socio-economic factors continue to play a pivotal role in the cultural and spiritual realms of societies. However, globalization which has brought about religious independence in the country has resulted in the emergence of multiple religious sects and beliefs with almost antithetical doctrines resulting in serious conflicts at heritage sites. Using stories, written documents and informal interviews, this paper draws from past and current experiences at Great Zimbabwe monument, a heritage site and shrine that was and is still revered for its religious significance. It notes that there is a universal religious connection between heritage sites and the beliefs that followers of different religions such as Christianity and African traditional religion hold. The piece furthers to point out that from this universal connection, conflicts on religious use of heritage sites arise between different religious groups and for heritage sites managers.

Keywords: Africa, Zimbabwe, Cultural heritage sites, religion, Christianity, African traditional religion, apostolic sects, Great Zimbabwe.