National Geographic Investigates: Ancient Africa

From Benin to Mali and from empire of Ghana to Songhai, archaeologists have searched Africa for years, looking for clues to the history of the African people.

Learn about the drystone walls of Great Zimbabwe. Look at shawabtis, the carved figures created by Nubian artisans. See how ancient treasures help scientists today to piece together the puzzle of Africa's past. Every artifact uncovered brings us new understanding of ancient Africa.