Roggeveld, Mountain plateau in Northern Cape, South Africa
Roggeveld is a mountain plateau in the Karoo region reaching about 1500 meters in elevation and creating a distinct geographical border. The area spans a wide expanse and is shaped by several mountain passes that cut through the terrain.
In the 18th century, Johannes Schemaker documented Boschman communities living in the Roggeveld and recorded early settlement patterns. These records provide insight into the area's first inhabitants.
The name Roggeveld comes from Afrikaans meaning rye field, named after the wild rye that grew naturally across this mountain region. This name shapes the region's identity and reflects its natural heritage.
Visitors should bring sturdy vehicles as the region has several steep mountain passes including Komsberg Pass, Verlatenkloof, Ouberg Pass, Gannaga Pass, and Bloukrans Pass. Driving through these passes requires careful navigation and solid driving skills.
The South African Astronomical Observatory chose Sutherland in the Roggeveld as the location for its observatories, making the region a center for astronomical research. This choice was based on the plateau's optimal conditions for observing the night sky.
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