One of My Favorite Experiences in Durban: KwaZulu-Natal Museum !

From the outside, it’s just an ordinary white building with murals—easy to walk past without realizing the treasures inside. One of three textile artworks (likely knitted) hanging by the staircase depicts South Africa’s historic 1994 democratic elections. Highlights of the Collection: 👧 Zulu Dolls: Traditional dolls used for family education. When a girl begins menstruation, her mother gifts her a beautifully dressed doll as part of a celebratory ritual. The whole community gathers to drink traditional Zulu beer (different from hop-based beer), dance, and share wisdom about womanhood. Boys learn that the girl is now "of age." These heirloom dolls, handmade by mothers, are later given to a suitor as a token of love. 🛏️ Portable Pillows: Used by hunters during expeditions. 🧙 Shamans of Three Ethnic Groups: The central display shows tools for rituals and divination. ⚰️ Whole-Wood Water Burial Coffin: A fascinating funerary artifact. 🥁 Zulu War Drums: Powerful symbols of tradition. 👗 Zulu Women’s Attire: Unmarried women wore minimal coverings (below the waist). After engagement/marriage, they covered their upper bodies for their husbands. 💎 Xhosa Men’s Beaded Adornments: According to our Zulu guide, Xhosa men dress elaborately (playfully deemed "feminine" by him—no gender debates here!). These beads are removed once committed to a relationship, signaling they’re "taken." Fun fact: Xhosa courtship is women-led! 🦁 Ndebele Women’s Dazzling Blankets: Decorated with mirrors to scare off wild animals at night. 🎶 Musical Instruments: A vibrant collection of traditional pieces. #MuseumMagic #Durban #ZuluCulture #HiddenGems