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This is the cave of Makhetha Mantsopa in Lesotho, South Africa.

She was a healer, diviner, rainmaker, and sister to King Moshoeshoe I, the first King of Lesotho in the 1800s.

She performed miracles and prophecies in this cave.

Born around 1795 in Maseru, the capital of the Lesotho, she was famed for her powers by the mid-1800s.

What did she foretell?

That the BaSotho people would defeat UK colonial troops led by Major Warden in 1851.

She also spoke of a distant future of airplanes and cars.

Who visits the cave?

Pilgrims from all over the world — about 10–15 visitors a week.

Why do they visit?

To drink water from the spring at this site, where the waters are sacred and believed to provide cleansing and good fortune.

To pray through her to God.

To leave offerings.

To see the Priory of St Augustine’s, a monastery next to the cave.

See videos and photos below of my visit there.

Candles are lit by various Pilgrims, having traveled here from far away to say prayers and ask for healing

 

Maketha Mantsopa
A sign outside the cave

 

A signboard points the way to the cave

 

A graveyard is nearby, where Maketha Mantsopa is buried

 

People leave candles and stones when they visit as a sign of respect

 

An opening in the rock brings daylight into the cave below

6 responses to “Visiting An African Prophetess’ Cave”

  1. Good day,my name is Philani Nyezi from Bloemfontein, I’d like to visit mme Mantsopa cave to prayfor 3 days,how do I book an appointment with a tour guide?

    1. The Starlit Path Avatar
      The Starlit Path

      This is a brilliant site to join tours to the cave: https://tinyurl.com/2zh9dc3x

  2. How to book for visit to this place?

    1. The Starlit Path Avatar
      The Starlit Path

      There are no bookings needed for the cave x

  3. Stephina Chego Avatar
    Stephina Chego

    Good Day,

    Will like to book an appointment to come that side my name is Stephina Chego.

    1. The Starlit Path Avatar
      The Starlit Path

      Start with the Municipality’s Tourism Office: Contact the Ladybrand tourism line (051 924 0654) and inquire specifically about arranging access to Mantsopa’s Cave

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