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Tshwane is the capital city of South Africa and the seat of government administration. Established in 1855, the city has grown into a metropolis that encapsulates our rainbow nation where people of all races, colours and creeds live and work alongside each other. Often referred to as the Jacaranda city, because of the 70 000 Jacaranda trees that line the streets and blossom in October, it is a beautiful city - at all times.
Tshwane resembles Africa with a touch of Europe and a pinch of oriental spice. Hooting taxis, buses crammed to capacity and hawkers selling an array of fresh fruit and other articles at intersections and on side walks are in stark contrast to the chauffeur-driven vehicles of diplomats and the up-market shops and boutiques where the well-heeled shop. And when buying spices from the Asiatic Bazaar or admiring the beautiful Miriamman temple, the oriental atmosphere is tangible.
We are a city of contrasts that is vibrant and alive and fascinating. Explore our colourful and often turbulent history in our many museums and at heritage sites. View the art and the crafts of our talented people, relax in our parks and gardens and learn more about the history of mankind in places like The Cradle of Humankind and the Tswaing Crater.
We're proud of our city and the many landmarks that reflect the peaceful transformation to a full democracy. Pride of place must go to the imposing Union Buildings where the advent of democracy was ushered in with the inauguration of former president Nelson Mandela in 1994 and where President Jakob Zuma was inaugurated on 9 May 2009. Equally important is Freedom Park that is a symbol of our people's struggle for freedom and a tribute to the truth and reconciliation process in our country. Visit these and many other fascinating places.
Our zoo is the largest in the country and our botanical gardens are spread over 76 hectares, virtually in the centre of town. We boast a fig tree older than 1 000 years in the Wonderboom Nature Reserve and the Groenkloof Nature Reserve that was proclaimed a game sanctuary by Paul Kruger in 1895, making it the oldest sanctuary in Africa. In the early 1900s, the Premier Diamond Mine in the town of Cullinan yielded the largest gem diamond ever found and is still in production.
The list of attractions is endless and coupled with our excellent tourism infrastructure makes us a holiday and business destination that will not disappoint. We look forward to welcoming you in Tshwane.
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Name: The City of Tshwane Metropolitan Municipality incorporates the local authorities of Pretoria, Centurion, Akasia and Shoshanguwe, and the surrounding areas of Ga-Rankuwa, Mabopane, Winterveldt, Temba, Hammanskraal, Pienaarsrivier, Olievenhoutbosch, Eersterus, Mamelodi, Laudium, Atteridgeville and Crocodile River.
Area: The municipal area extends for 60 kilometres from east to west and for 70 kilometres from north to south.
Province: Gauteng
Population: 2,2 million
Altitude: 1214 metres
Geography: An area between rocky ridges in the transitional region between tropical savannah (Bushveld) and the Highveld plateau.
Climate: A summer rainfall area. Hot days are regularly relieved by short and intense afternoon or evening thunderstorms. Lightning and occasionally also hail occur frequently. Summer temperatures range from 16°C at night to 30°C during the day. Winters are mild and dry with temperatures averaging between 5°C and 20°C.
Key economic sectors: Services, commerce, industry
Distance from other centres: Bloemfontein 438 km, Cape Town 1 519 km, Durban 692 km, East London 1 047 km, Johannesburg 56 km, Kimberley 525 km, Nelspruit 342 km, OR Tambo Airport 48 km, Pietermaritzburg 561 km, Polokwane 264 km, Port Elizabeth 1 112 km.
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