There has been much debate concerning the possible function of the Great Enclosure. Diverse suggestions range from an initiation centre (domba) (Huffinan 1987; 1996), a residence for the great wife (Garlake 1973; Mufuka 1983; Hall, M. 1996), a residence for the Mambo in the later period of occupation (Garlake 1994) to the extraordinary suggestion of a prison to hold slaves (Mallows 1984). The building has even been described as a 'temple' by earlier documenters. The range of suggestions and the level of uncertainty surrounding the possible function of the Great Enclosure may reveal the peripheral level at which most researchers have examined Shona culture in its relationship to the architecture of Great Zimbabwe.

Also known as Imba Huru. Estimated to contain 15,000 tons of granite blocks. Suggested use was for state functions and community celebrations. At the center of the structure is a more roughly build and much older oval ruin with a squat rounded tower, which is likely to have held a massive monolith in the distant past. Near to this is a large stepped platform that was used as a Speakers Platform when dignitaries addressed the assembly.

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