Lesotho is a small country in southern Africa, located entirely within the borders of South Africa. It is the only country in the world that is entirely surrounded by another country. Lesotho has a rich and vibrant history, with many different cultures and peoples having influenced its development over the centuries. In this article, we will take a look at the history of Lesotho's Leribe region, which is located in the north-central part of the country.
The earliest inhabitants of the region were the San people, who are believed to have arrived in the area as early as the 12th century. They were hunter-gatherers who lived a nomadic lifestyle, and their presence in the region is evidenced by the many rock paintings that can still be seen in the area.
The first recorded settlers of the region were the Sotho people, who arrived from the north in the late 16th century. The Sotho established several small kingdoms in the region, and by the mid-19th century, the region had become known as the Basutoland. The Basutoland was under the rule of the King Moshoeshoe I, and it was during this period that the region became known as Lesotho.
In the late 19th century, the British began to take an interest in the region, and in 1868, they established a protectorate over the Basutoland. This protectorate was later transformed into a British colony in 1884, and in 1966, the country gained its independence from the British.
The Leribe region is located in the north-central part of Lesotho, and it is one of the four regions of the country. The region has a population of around 400,000 people, most of whom are members of the Sotho ethnic group. The region is known for its rich cultural heritage, and it is home to many traditional festivals and celebrations.
The Leribe region is also home to some of the country's most important historical sites, including the ruins of the Morija Mission, which was built in 1833 and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The region is also home to the Ha Baroana Caves, which are believed to have been used by the San people for centuries.
The Leribe region is also known for its beautiful landscapes, with rolling hills, lush forests, and crystal-clear rivers. The region is home to several national parks, including the Sehlabathebe National Park, which is home to a variety of wildlife, including the rare and endangered black rhinoceros.
The Leribe region has a long and fascinating history, and it is a great place to visit if you are looking to explore the culture and history of Lesotho. From its traditional festivals to its stunning landscapes, the region has something to offer everyone.