The Chinhoyi Caves

Mashonaland West · Zimbabwe · Natural site

The cave's cobalt-blue pool is called Chirorodziva, 'the Pool of the Fallen' – victims were cast into it, and their spirits are said to watch over the water still.

Deep in the limestone caves at Chinhoyi, a sheer shaft drops to a mirror-still, cobalt-blue pool. Its traditional name is Chirorodziva, 'the Pool of the Fallen': legend holds that the outlaw Nyamakwere used the caves as his stronghold and hurled his victims into the depths, until he was defeated by the headman Chinhoyi who gave the town its name. The spirits of those who perished are said to linger in the chambers, which are still revered as a dwelling place of the ancestors. Anyone who tries to throw a stone across the pool is said to fail – the spirits catch it and lay a curse upon the thrower.

FAQ

Where is The Chinhoyi Caves located?

The Chinhoyi Caves is in Mashonaland West, Zimbabwe.