Situated in the Free State province, the tranquil city of Bloemfontein is the judicial capital of South Africa. It is the economic hub of the Mangaung Local Municipality, "place where the Cheetahs dwell", as well as the commercial capital of the province.
Bloemfontein is extremely popular for its grand showcase of roses, the 'Mangaung Rose Festival'. Held every October since 1976, the festival attracts thousands of rose and flower enthusiasts from all over the world.
Filmmaker, comedian and musician, Leon Schuster, was born and schooled in Bloemfontein, while sporting heroes like Allan Donald, Hansie Cronje, François Steyn, and Kgotso Moleko also hail from this lovely city.
A brief history of the area
Bloemfontein was officially founded in 1846 by British army major Henry Douglas Warden. Prior to that, it was the farm of Johannes Brits (born 21 February 1790) who was the first inhabitant of Bloemfontein. Brits later sold the farm to Major Warden.
Colonial policy changes saw the region become the Orange River Sovereignty during 1848-1854. The further change led to the Orange Free State Republic from 1854-1902. During 1902-1910 it was the capital of the Orange River Colony, which thereafter led to the capital of the Free State. 1910 saw Bloemfontein becoming the Judicial capital of the Union of South Africa.
Climate
Bloemfontein experiences a semi-arid climate with hot summer days with cooler, dry winters, often with frosts. While snowfall is quite rare, in August 2006 it snowed in the city, and again at the airport on 26 July 2007.
Distance from key points (Airport/CBD)
Bloemfontein has two airports; New Tempe Aerodrome is used as a training facility for aviators and schools, while Bram Fischer International Airport is for those travelling to any of South Africa's major cities. The driving distance from Bloemfontein Central is around 10 km to the Bram Fischer International Airport, which will take you roughly 15 minutes to reach with an average speed of 80km/h.
Schools in the area
There are no shortages of top-class schooling facilities in the city of roses. Top schools include Grey College, Eunice High School, Brebner Primary School, St Andrew's School Bloemfontein, Bloemfontein High School, Wilgehof Primary School, as well as Onze Rust Primary School. Tertiary institutions include University of the Free State, Qualitas Career Academy, Jeppe College, School of Nursing University of the Freestate, and Boston City Campus & Business College, to name a few.
Hospitals nearby
Bloemfontein is renowned for its remarkable medical facilities and hospitals in the area. Oranje Hospital, Pelonomi Academic Hospital, Life Rosepark Hospital, National District Hospital, and Universitas Private Hospital are just some of the hospitals to note.
Shopping Malls
There is a fine array of shopping malls situated in Bloemfontein: Loch Logan Waterfront Mall, Mimosa Mall, Middestad Centre, Northridge Mall, and Fleurdal Mall.
Restaurants
Catering for the food connoisseurs, aside from the popular eateries such as Nandos, John Dory's, RocoMamas, Mugg & Bean, and Panarottis, there is also the New York Restaurant, Longhorn Grill Steak House, Bella Casa, and more.
Special Attractions
From shopping malls, galleries, museums, movie theatres, to model train park, zoos and fine dining spots, Bloemfontein is fun filled for the whole family. The Gwen Bali Water World or Maselspoort Resort great to visit in the warmer months of the year, while the Choet Visser Rugby Museum is a must-see for any rugby fan.
Time to invest
Bloemfontein is a wonderful destination for your next property. It is also filled with historical roots and a prosperous future for both investors and residents. If you are interested in this magnificent city contact RealNet Properties now to find your perfect home.
