Kimberley – Diamond Mining in the Big Hole
One of the most romantic and exciting periods in South African history began near the town of Kimberley in South Africa’s Northern Cape Province. It became the backdrop for captivating tales of fortune, grit, and global fascination. The city’s legacy is built on legends—of fortunes made and lost, and of iconic figures like a humble barrow boy and a vicar’s son who became powerful mining magnates and reshaped South African history.
The discovery of a 21-carat diamond in 1866 triggered one of the most intense diamond rushes the world has ever seen. Prospectors flooded in from across the globe in search of wealth and glory. Among the few who struck it rich were Barney Barnato, a poor Londoner, and Cecil John Rhodes, the son of a country vicar. Both men would go on to become influential multi-millionaires and shape the destiny of the region—and beyond.
Kimberley is rich in attractions that make history come alive. The city boasts exceptional museums that portray early life on the diamond fields, Anglo-Boer War exhibits, and immersive mining experiences. Don’t miss the Pioneers of Aviation Museum, various art museums, and of course, the iconic Big Hole and Victorian Town open-air museum.
Modern amenities and leisure activities add to the city’s appeal. Visitors can enjoy well-maintained golf courses, bowling greens, tennis courts, and a variety of shopping and dining venues. Surrounding the city are historic memorials and battle sites from the Anglo-Boer War—most notably the Siege of Kimberley in 1899, where the renowned “Long Cecil” gun is on display, and the Magersfontein Battlefield, preserved with relics and detailed war exhibits that reflect a turning point in military strategy.
