Pietermaritzburg, the capital of KwaZulu Natal is also known as the Heritage City and owes its special character to its rich architectural heritage. The collection of Victorian and Edwardian architecture has elevated Pietermaritzburg as a “high character” city in Africa and it is also regarded as one of the finest Victorian cities in the world.

The Tatham Art Gallery has an extensive collection of South African art, as well as collection of 19th and 20th century British and French paintings.

The city is host to some of the country’s top sporting events including the Comrades Marathon, one of the world’s most famous ultra marathons, Dusi Canoe Marathon, Amashovashova Cycle Race and the Midmar Dam Mile.

Famous people such as Mohandas Gandhi, Queen Victoria, Nelson Mandela and Alan Paton have left their mark on history in this city.

It was at Pietermaritzburg station that Ghandi was forcibly removed from a First Class carriage in June 1893. This was the start of his politicisation and his Passive Resistance campaign.

Look out for the statue of this influential leader in Longmarket Street. It was during the reign of this regal lady that Pietermaritzburg grew into the magnificent “Victorian” city that it is today.

A man close to the hearts of South African people. Mandela made his last speech – prior to incarceration on Robben Island for 27 years – at Imbali. He returned to Pietermaritzburg on 25 April 1997 to be awarded the Freedom of the city of Pietermaritzburg. Between Lions River and Tweedie, a commemorative plinth marks the site where Mandela was arrested on the 5th August 1962.

Visit the Alan Paton Museum to learn more about this famous author who wrote “Cry the Beloved Country”.

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