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SANParks Mapungubwe Lecture Series Explores Sacred Spaces, Living Heritage And Echoes Of An Epic Civilization
South African National Parks (SANParks) is extending the celebration of heritage to the month of October with the Annual Mapungubwe Lecture Series taking place at Mapungubwe National Park and World Heritage Site from 10 to 12 October 2025. This is the fifth Mapungubwe Lecture Series weekend hosted by SANParks.
The keynote lecture of the lecture series will be delivered by Dr. Nonhlanhla Vilakazi, a Palaeontologist and senior lecturer in the Department of Zoology at the University of Johannesburg, where she specializes in palaeo-herpetology – the study of fossil reptiles and their ecosystems. The Doctor’s lecture is titled, “Sacred Space and Living Heritage”. It will explore Mapungubwe as a nexus of Spiritual Meaning, Archaeological Significance, and Interdisciplinary Collaboration in Southern Africa.
Friday night will also see a talk titled “Echoes of Mapungubwe: Reimagining an Epic Civilization” by Azah, a multi-instrumentalist, Pan-Africanist, Composer, Sonic Healer, Cultural Entrepreneur, Griot and Indigenous Knowledge System Practitioner. This is a multidimensional, and critically engaged reflection of Mapungubwe, its place within Africa’s epic civilizations, and its enduring significance in cultural, spiritual, and intellectual life.
This year’s lecture series is an activity-packed weekend that will showcase Mapungubwe National Park’s various attractions. Guests will be transported back in time as they explore the proud history of Southern Africa’s first kingdom through a guided heritage trail and museum visit, as well as cultural performances. The Park provides for both traditional tourism offerings as well as cultural experiences with ignites connections to the spirituality and pride in our heritage.
From seeking out Mapungubwe’s majestic baobabs to sitting down for a traditional music festival under the stars on the banks of the Limpopo River, this weekend of cultural immersion promises to be an authentic once-in-a-lifetime experience that will broaden perspectives and create a deeper appreciation of our heritage.