GeographyThe oasis town of Lichtenburg is situated approximately 210km west of Johannesburg on the main route (N14) to Mmabatho. History Sometimes called 'Wilgedorp' because of the willow trees along the furrows lining the streets, Lichtenburg was established in 1873 by Commandant HA Greeff. President Burgers of the Zuid-Afrikaansche Republiek named the town Lichtenburg, as he hoped that it could become the shining beacon of the region. Development was slow however, and the town only gained municipal status in 1904. This changed in 1926 when a diamond was found on the farm Elandsputte and a diamond rush resulted in more than 100,000 diggers streaming into town. By March of the next year 25,000 runners took part to peg their claims in one of the biggest diamond rushes in history. By 1935 the rush was over, after 7-million carats of diamonds had been unearthed. Today the town is the centre of a huge farming district where maize, groundnuts and sunflower seeds are the main crops.Arts and Culture Lichtenburg has many museums and monuments including exhibits of the alluvial diamond diggings at the Diggings Museum. At the Ampie Bosman Cultural History Museum visitors can find out more about the intriguing history of Lichtenburg. In the town square there is a statue of the brilliant Boer military commander Koos de la Rey, while his grave, replete with a bronze bust is in the town cemetery. ScienceThe "Wondergat" sinkhole is one of the deepest places in South Africa, and offers inland diving. Two kilometres northeast of the town is the 4,500ha game breeding centre which is operated by the Pretoria-based National Zoological Gardens of South Africa. Visitors can see white rhino, blue wildebeest, zebra, impala and gemsbok in their natural surroundings.Did You KnowThe biggest pure red diamond in the world was found in Lichtenburg.
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Places to Stay in Lichtenburg, North West, South Africa |
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 | Little Dreams Guest House
AA Associate Member
Places to Stay in Lichtenburg, North WestSituated in the heart of the North West Province, lies the once diamond-rich Lichtenburg. With beautiful gardens and great hospitality, Little Dreams Guest House welcomes you. Equipped with 15 upmarket and tastefully decorated guest rooms. The ideal wedding and conference venue. |  | Scott's Manor Guest House & Conference Centre
AA Superior
Places to Stay in Lichtenburg, North WestThis Georgian Manor House has been restored to its original gracious splendour. Wooden panels and high ceilings create a warm, spacious and timeless elegance. Situated in a quiet tree-lined street. A 2 min walk to the town centre, 1.5 hours from Sun City and 2 hours from Johannesburg. We specialise in conferences and weddings. |  | Sundown Guest House
AA Highly Recommended
Places to Stay in Lichtenburg, North WestCentrally located, en suite, air-conditioned bedrooms with private entrances. Business or visiting. Affordable accommodation. Traditional breakfast with dinner by arrangement. All rooms with TV, bar fridge and hospitality trays. Laundry service on request. Secure paved parking. Friendly, caring service. |
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