Hidden in the hills near Machadodorp in Mpumalanga lies one of South Africa’s most intriguing mysteries—Adam’s Calendar, also known as the Blaauwboschkraal Stone Ruins. This ancient site has sparked curiosity for years, with some suggesting it could be over 75,000 years old. Often referred to as “African Stonehenge,” the site’s alignment with celestial events has made it a source of fascination for archaeologists, historians, and adventurers alike.
Adam’s Calendar first came to public attention in 2003 when pilot Johan Heine noticed unusual stone formations while flying over the area. Upon closer inspection, he discovered that the stones were aligned to cardinal points—North, South, East, and West—and seemed to mark significant events such as the solstices and equinoxes. This has led many to believe that the site functioned as an ancient sun calendar.
At the heart of the structure is a central upright stone, which casts shadows onto surrounding flat stones. These shadows thought to track months, seasons, and possibly years, add to the site’s reputation as a sophisticated timekeeping device.
Adam’s Calendar is part of a much larger network of ruins, collectively known as the Blaauwboschkraal Stone Ruins. Spanning over 10,400 square kilometres, these structures include thousands of circular stone walls and pathways. Many of the circles lack entrances, challenging the long-held idea that they were merely cattle enclosures built by early Bantu-speaking farmers.
These ruins have been known to locals and explorers since the 1800s. In 1891, English explorer Theodore Bent estimated their number in the thousands, and later surveys put the figure at over 20,000. Built from dolerite rock, the scale and complexity of these structures have led some to speculate that they were created by a much older civilisation than previously thought.
The origins and purpose of Adam’s Calendar remain a topic of debate. While mainstream archaeology attributes the ruins to early Bantu-speaking farmers around the 14th century, other theories suggest a far older origin. Some researchers believe the calendar was created by an advanced ancient civilisation with a deep understanding of astronomy and energy. The stones’ precise placement and alignment with solar movements support this theory.
Zulu oral tradition adds another layer to the mystery. Known as Inzalo y’Langa, or “The Birthplace of the Sun,” the site is viewed as sacred and connected to the ancestors. Recent studies have detected sound frequencies and electromagnetic activity in the area, leading to speculation that the stones interact with natural energy fields. This has prompted theories that the site may have served ceremonial or even scientific purposes.
Today, Adam’s Calendar is part of the Blue Swallow National Heritage Site. Visitors can explore the site with a guide, ensuring its preservation for future generations. The name Mpumalanga, meaning “The Place Where the Sun Rises,” reinforces the idea that this site has long been a marker of time, creation, and cultural significance.
Adam’s Calendar remains an enigma, a place where ancient history, astronomy, and local heritage converge. Whether you’re drawn by the mystery, the history, or the breathtaking views, it’s a destination that invites curiosity and wonder.
Tick this off your bucket list by checking in with your Lekker Passport™! This ancient marvel is a perfect addition to your adventure map, celebrating South Africa’s hidden gems and fascinating history. Whether you’re drawn by the mystery, the history, or the breathtaking views, it’s a destination that invites curiosity and wonder.