Johannesburg, Metropolitan center in Gauteng Province, South Africa
Johannesburg is a major city in Gauteng province in South Africa, spreading across several hills with high-rise buildings in districts like Sandton and Rosebank, residential neighborhoods with low houses, and parks scattered between the streets. Wide avenues connect the different areas, each with its own pace and character.
The discovery of gold deposits in 1886 transformed a farming area into a major urban center in less than ten years. Mining attracted workers from many countries and shaped the early development of the settlement.
Sunday markets in districts like Rosebank and Neighbourgoods bring residents together over food stalls, crafts and live music that reflects the local mix of influences. Families and young professionals share benches under the trees, turning public spaces into informal gathering points.
The city is spread out and most visitors use taxis or rental cars to move between neighborhoods. The Gautrain connects the airport to some central districts, but is less practical for longer trips within the city.
The city is home to over six million trees, creating one of the largest urban forests in the world and supporting a diverse ecosystem within its boundaries. Many streets are lined with tall jacaranda trees that bloom purple in spring and cover entire neighborhoods in color.
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