By Nangamso Mabindla
9 November 2006

THE famous bell stone has finally arrived in East London, bringing the planned garden of heritage in the city's Heroes' Park a step closer to reality.

The garden will be a celebration of the Xhosa and Khoisan cultures found in the province.

Called the Inyengane by the amaXhosa and the Gerang Klip by the Khoisan, the bell stone is one of the hardest stones in the province. It is linked to Xhosa culture and beliefs and was used during drought. The Inyengane stone was rung when rain dances were performed as it was believed that the gods could hear the ringing and would make it rain.

Cynthia Nonkwelo, the project co-ordinator, said that the Heroes' Park board was very happy that the stone finally had arrived in East London. "When each of these little pieces comes together, our goal of reminding people of our heritage becomes a reality," she said.

Talking about the benefits of having the stone at the park, Nonkwelo said that young children would be reminded of the cultures that made up the province.

"Our children will know where our people come from, what they used to do as part of their daily lives. When you hit this stone with a hammer, there's a ring to it and that is what Xhosa people used to do when they were praying for rain. They used to dance around this stone and ring it for the gods to hear their plea."

The stone would be placed near the multi-cultural statue and the German Monument. "The Inyengane stone is known internationally and it celebrates the rich culture and heritage of our province, so it will be a very important feature in our park," Nonkwelo said.

Still expected to arrive is the multi-cultural statue from Italy, which will be unveiled in East London on 16 December. "We are looking forward to all these features, because they will make our park very inclusive and inviting to tourists and locals."