Kimberley

Kimberley is a town in Sol Plaatje Local Municipality, Northern Cape Province, spread around a former diamond mine. The surroundings show flat grassland with scattered thorn scrub under wide skies, while streets extend outward from the central crater.

The discovery of diamonds in 1871 transformed farmland into a mining settlement, officially founded as a town two years later. By 1914 the open pit hole was finally abandoned, while the town became the capital of the former Cape Province.

The name honors British colonial secretary Lord Kimberley, who held office during the early diamond rush. Today the streetscape blends Victorian houses with modern administrative buildings, reflecting the shift from mining camp to provincial capital.

A regional airport links the town with Johannesburg and Cape Town, while intercity buses offer alternative connections. Most attractions lie within walking distance in the town center, though the hot dry climate makes shade and water necessary.

In 1882 electric street lamps were installed here, making it the first city in the Southern Hemisphere with this technology. This innovation came just three years after Thomas Edison invented the light bulb and demonstrated the wealth from diamond trade.

Location: Sol Plaatje Local Municipality

Inception: 1873

Elevation above the sea: 1,184 m

Shares border with: Warrenton

Website: https://solplaatje.org.za

GPS coordinates: -28.73833,24.76389

Latest update: December 12, 2025 21:04