A Capital of Heritage and Charm

Pietermaritzburg, the capital city of KwaZulu-Natal in South Africa, is a city of elegant architecture and profound historical significance. Founded in 1838 by Voortrekkers, its streets are lined with beautiful Victorian and Edwardian buildings, giving it a distinct and graceful character. Known as the “City of Choice,” it serves as an important administrative centre and a gateway to the famous Midlands Meander and the Drakensberg mountains.

Monuments of a Layered Past

The city's magnificent red-brick City Hall is the largest all-brick building in the Southern Hemisphere and a symbol of its proud heritage. Pietermaritzburg is also home to excellent cultural institutions like the KwaZulu-Natal Museum and the Tatham Art Gallery. It holds a significant place in world history as the site where a young Mahatma Gandhi was forcibly removed from a train in 1893, an event that catalysed his philosophy of passive resistance and changed the course of history.

A City in Motion

Beyond its history, Pietermaritzburg is famous for hosting two of the world's toughest endurance races: the Comrades Marathon and the Dusi Canoe Marathon. These major annual events attract international athletes and bring a vibrant energy to the city. For recreation, the beautiful National Botanical Gardens and nearby nature reserves offer tranquil escapes. With a lively local market scene and a growing culinary culture, the city offers a wonderful blend of history, sport, and modern living. Proudly featured on the Bounce Business Directory.