Bethlehem, Thabo Mofutsanyana

This important farming and commercial centre lies on the Jordaan River in a rich wheat-producing region, also notable for wool and cattle farming. The Maluti Mountains provide a dramatic backdrop. Bethlehem was founded by the Voortrekkers during the 1840's and is the setting for a number of historical sandstone buildings, many of which are now provincial heritage sites.

Excellent facilities are available, including good restaurants and a varied entertainment calendar. The banks of the Jordaan River form part of the Pretoriuskloof Nature Reserve, a sanctuary for birds and small game. Bethlehem is a convenient stopover for motorists travelling to Golden Gate Park and the Drakensberg.

Visitors looking to find out more about the history of the town and its culture will find the numerous museums interesting. At Baartman House, exhibits of wagons and horse carriages, period furniture and farm implements give the visitor to Bethlehem an idea of the lifestyle of the people venturing into the hinterland. Another outstanding collection of exhibits including war memorabilia can be seen at the Museum of Cultural History housed in the former Nazareth Mission Church.