Ferreirasdorp

Ferreirasdorp, Johannesburg

Ferreirasdorp is the oldest part of the ever-buzzing metropolis of Johannesburg, with the first tent having been set up here in 1886. It started as a residential area on a mining farm, which was due to become a gold mining hotspot. Over the years, though, it has evolved and grown, and is now home to a number of important heritage spots; while it continues to boast a fantastic vibe.

Ferreirasdorp used to be known as Ferreira's Township, and is affectionately dubbed "The Cradle of Johannesburg". It is here that the very first gold digging began, and these pioneering diggers soon set up camp right here.

Today, there is a wealth of fascinating spots to see within the suburb. These include the Ferreira's Mine stope (or access tunnel), the Chancellor House (where the late president, Nelson Mandela, and Oliver Tambo had their law practice), the location of Ferreira's Camp and wagon, and the St Alban's Mission Church, which dates back to 1898.

Taking a walk through Ferreirasdorp is fun and fascinating. The former Gold Miner's Camp Museum provides a poignant insight into the tough conditions under which miners lived and worked. These were mostly immigrants from neighbouring African countries, and were desperate for the income for their survival.

The Joziburg Market is on Fox Street in Ferreirasdorp, and is brimming with stunning arts and crafts, gorgeous fashion, delicious food, and a host of quirky keepsakes.

The Sci-Bono Discovery Centre is situated nearby to the museum, and is a fantastic place for the entire family to explore the worlds of maths and science like never before.

Ferreirasdorp is 27 kilometres from the OR Tambo International Airport and about 16 kilometres from the shopping Mecca of Sandton.