Heidelberg | Gauteng

Heidelberg lies at the base of the Suikerbosrand.

Heidelberg originated in 1862 and started as a trading station built by a German, HJ Uekermann.

A town was developed around the store and named after Uekermann's alma mater.

With its beautiful surroundings and the chance to create a community and life many had visualized, it wasn’t long before hundreds of people relocated to Heidelberg and began to build a town that stands as a monument to these efforts today.
During the First War of Independence Heidelberg served as capital of the Zuid Afrikaansche Republiek under the Trio of Paul Kruger, PJ Joubert and MW Pretorius, from 1880 to 1883.

In 1885 the Witwatersrand gold reef was discovered in the Heidelberg region and so the office of the Mining Commissioner was established there.

Heidelberg became a typical rural Victorian town. Many buildings and properties have been preserved dating back to the period between 1890 and 1910 and many Heidelberg properties have become renowned for their unique character and charm.

With regard to attractions, Heidelberg should not be judged upon size, as there are historical landmarks and architecture to be viewed throughout the town. Visitors will be able to explore anassortment of interesting attractions which includes the following activities.

Activities

AG Visser House
Dr AG Visser,a famous early Afrikaans poetlived and practised as the local doctor in this house.

Concentration Camp Cemetery
Observe the graves of woman and children who died during the Second War of Independence.

Diepkloof Farm Museum
Find the old restored farmhouse built in 1850 located 20km out On the Nigel road.

Heidelberg Transport Museum
This Museum was opened in 1975 by the Rembrandt group as a service to the community.

Klipkerk
Its English name meaning 'stonechurch', the corner of this lovely sandstone structurewhich was laid in 1890, 25 years after the finding of congregation, and has now become one of the most prominent properties in Heidelberg.

Suikerbosrand Nature Reserve
The Highveld reserve has a variety of plants, birds and animal species. Clearly marked self-guiding hiking is laid out. Caravan, picnic and barbeque facilities are available for your use and enjoyment.

The old Jail
The jail was built in 1888 and was first a hospital and home for the under privileged. The building has been empty since 1963 when a new jail was built. It is currently being restored.

Bakoond
During the Second War of Independence, a "bakoond" was built by the boers. This Bakoond was built over over the water fountain to hide it from the British forces. They safe-guarded their supply of water in this way.

Heidelberg is a magnificent cultural gem in Gauteng, and a town that has well-maintained and preserved its heritage, so that it can be appreciated by future generations. A visit to Heidelberg is a peaceful and distinctive adventure of discovery and beauty. Tourists to South Africa should not miss out on this extraordinary town and all it has to offer.