Grahamstown – Explore the Culture and Arts
One of the most popular towns in the Eastern Cape is Grahamstown. Although great battles and conflict, of which the forts are reminders, shaped the history of the town, this peaceful destination today chooses to focus its energy on arts, culture and the education of its students at Rhodes University. With ample comfortable accommodation and numerous attractions for visitors to enjoy, the town has grown in popularity with tourists.
Grahamstown is filled with historical attractions such as the 1820 Settlers National Monument, 44 Air School & Grahamstown Military Base, Artificer’s Square (the old artisan’s quarter), Cathedral of St. Michael and St. George, Commemoration Church, High Street Façade, The Drostdy Gate, The Provost Prison and The Oldest Official Letterbox in South Africa. For outdoor enthusiasts, there are many game reserves nearby including Amakhala Game Reserve, the Great Fish River Reserve, Kariega Private Game Reserve, Lalibela Game Reserve, Shamwari Game Reserve and the Emlanjeni Private Game Reserve. But the outdoor attractions and activities do not end there, as Grahamstown also offers visits to the Reed Valley Crocodile Farm, skydiving, angling, rock climbing, hiking, Makana Botanical Gardens, bird watching, golf and even helicopter rides.Throughout the year, the town hosts a variety of festivals of which the annual Grahamstown National Arts Festival is a well supported and well-liked event with locals and visitors. During the festival artistic stalls, entertainment, concerts and theatre productions keep festival goers occupied.
Grahamstown is a fascinating and historical destination that offers tourists the opportunity to discover the breathtaking beauty of the town and surrounding areas, as well as getting a glimpse into the turbulent past of the country.
