This is the site of King Mpande’s homestead.
Following Dingane’s murder of King Shaka, Mpande,
fearing the same moved away from the Mgungundlovu area and
was spared - unlike many family members.
In 1839, following defeat by the Boers at the Battle
of Ncome (Blood River) Dingane set fire to Mgungundlovu
and fled north across the Pongola River where, three months
later, he was killed.
Mpande, third son of Senzangakona,
was proclaimed King of the Zulus and returned to the Emakhosini
area and built his royal residence at Ulundi. Mpande ruled
for 32 years and died on 18 October 1872 at Nodwengu where
he is buried.
Today the site is marked by a large iqukane
(hut) built in the traditional style that serves as an interpretation
centre.