An indlu is the traditional beehive-shaped (dome-shaped) dwelling of the Zulu in South Africa. It is an example of sustainable, local building with natural materials.
Construction
The indlu is built from natural, locally available materials:
- Frame: a framework of bent, springy laths or twigs forms the dome shape.
- Thatching: this frame is covered with grass and reed.
- Finish: an ornamental finial sits at the top.
- Anchoring: in a storm the roof is held down with a net of grass ropes.
Homestead and meaning
- Umuzi: several indlus stand in a circle around a central cattle enclosure and together form a homestead, the umuzi.
- Symbolism: the word “indlu” also means “house” and symbolically stands for the family line.
In this way the indlu links practical building with the social and family structure of the community.
Related terms
- Round dwelling
- Cave dwelling
- Blackhouse
- Dolmen
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