Experiencing the history of Masitise cave and housing in Lesotho

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1. History of Masitise cave Located at Masitise in Quthing district, is the Cave House built in 1866-7 by Rev. David Ellenberger a missionary of the Parish Evangelical Missionary Society, who was invited to the place by chief Moorosi of Baphuthi . The three roomed cave house was used as a home by the Ellenberger family where some of his children were born. There is a negative dinosaur foot print on the ceiling of the large room. The cave house has been turned into a museum with exhibits of artefacts of the people who lived in the area. Rock paintings can also be found at a nearby place.

2. What attracts the tourists Historical Significance Cultural Exploration Natural Beauty Adventure and Exploration Educational Opportunities

3. What to see near Masitise Cave House Museum Villa maria mission Dinosaur footprint Quthing hotels Senqu hotels Sterkspruit hotels

4. The beauty of Masitise cave

5. What can you see inside the cave

6. Liphofung Cave Situated just off the main route from Botha-Bothe to Oxbow and Mokhotlong, the Liphofung Nature Reserve features a large cave overhang in the Clarens sandstone. Once a Bushman shelter and later used by King Moshoeshoe I, the founder of the Basotho nation, the cave features stone-age rock paintings as well as rich archaeological deposits . A cultural and historical site of great importance, Liphofung has been developed with a focus on cultural education and the preservation of rock paintings, as well as the legacy of the early Basotho history of the area. Local guides are available to interpret the historical, cultural, and natural significance of the site and the area as a whole, while cultural displays, such as traditional dancing, may also be enjoyed. There is a site museum and visitors´ facilities include a craft outlet and a playground .

7. Activities There is a site museum, and local guides will take you around and interpret the historical, cultural and natural significance of the site.  Cultural displays, such as choral singing, and traditional dancing can be arranged with prior booking.  There is a craft outlet and light refreshments are available.

8. Accomodation A  campsite  is available to campers however the Self Catering chalets will only become available early in 2011 ( once the new management couple have approval ).

9. How to get there Enter Lesotho via the Caledornspoort border post. Take the A1 north 20kms towards Oxbow / AfriSki /Mokhotlong and then turn left for a further 7km until you reach Liphofung . You don’t need special transport to get there as it is easily accessible to all vehicles by means of a newly-constructed concrete road.

10. End of Presentation Masitisi Cave, steeped in the ancient history of Lesotho, evokes a sense of wonder and reverence. Its rocky chambers echo with the whispers of millennia, bearing witness to the resilience of past civilizations. The vibrant rock art adorning its walls tells tales of spiritual beliefs and daily life, inviting visitors to delve into the rich cultural tapestry of the region. To experience Masitisi Cave is to embark on a journey through time, a journey best undertaken with respect for its significance and a commitment to its preservation. Thank you By : Paballo Tsunyane

11. References [email protected] https://www.travellesotho.com/places-to-visit/masitise-cave-house / accessed [5-may-2024] [email protected] https://www.hotels.com/de10513339/hotels-near-masitise-cave-house-museum-quthing- accessed [5-may-2024] lesotho/? locale=en_GB&pos=HCOM_ME&siteid=310000033 [email protected] https://www.travellesotho.com/sightseeing/liphofung-caves-nature-reserve-tour / accessed [5-may-2024]