states: [zimbabwe]
category: cultural
year: 1986
region: Africa
latitude/longitude: -20.2833333300, 30.9333333300
unesco id: 364
world heritage site: 364
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The Great Zimbabwe National Monument, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is an ancient stone city built between the 11th and 15th centuries by the Shona people. It features impressive dry-stone architecture, including the iconic Great Enclosure and conical tower, reflecting a sophisticated civilization that once thrived as a political and economic hub. The site, abandoned by the 15th century, stands as a testament to African ingenuity and cultural heritage, drawing global interest for its historical significance.