Christiana, Southern Region
Christiana is a small farming community that is situated idyllically on the banks of the might Vaal River. This part of South Africa, known as the North West Province, shares a border with Botswana in the north. However, the town of Christiana is situated in its southern portion, and is home to around 20 000 locals. It may be quiet, somewhat secluded, but Christiana has earned its place on the globe for being a significant hub during the diamond rush of the 1870’s.
Diamonds were discovered further down the Vaal River during the late 19th century. Seeing the value of the entire area, the little settlement of Christiana (named after the daughter of President Pretorius) was established. As predicted, when diamonds were found in the gravel close to this little town in the 1870’s, hordes of hopefuls descended on the region, inhabiting this town (and many others of its kind). They brought with them a medley of cultures and customs, which continue to ‘flavour’ Christiana and add a distinctive character.
One of the most popular attractions of Christiana is the Diggers’ Diamond Museum, which showcases authentic pieces of the equipment used more than 120 years ago in the finding of diamonds. There are also a number of old photographs on display, which tell the tale of yesteryear, and even examples of San rock art, dating back thousands of years.
The diggers’ bell remains one of the largest in the world. In fact, it is considered to be the largest that has ever been made. However, it sank in the Vaal River, which is where it remains to this day; too big and heavy for divers to retrieve. There are theories that there are diamonds hidden inside the bell, but the surrounding mud has made it impossible to prove this.
Today, in addition to diamonds, the industries supporting Christiana are the farming of groundnuts, potatoes, maize and sorghum, as well as beef. Every year, the Delwers Fees (Diamond Diggers Festival) can be enjoyed.
In the vicinity
Hotels & other accommodation options
De Oude Melkstal
De Oude Melkstal is set on a lovely farm, nestled on the banks of the Mooi River in Potchefstroom. This area has plenty to keep visitors busy all...
Almar Exclusive Game Ranch
Almar Exclusive Game Ranch is situated between Klerksdorp and Kimberley on the N12 Treasure Route. You can find us on a stunning game farm in the...
Villa-né Guesthouse
This tranquil haven invites you to experience a blend of comfort, privacy, and warm hospitality. Villa-né Guesthouse offers a curated selection o...
Villa Strada Guesthouse
Villa Strada Guesthouse offers affordable accommodation in Freemanville, Klerksdorp, and is conveniently situated on the N12 in close proximity t...
Lotlametswe B&B
Lotlametswe B&B has a choice of air-conditioned rooms that can accommodate between two and four people. Breakfast is included in the rates and se...
Altewelkom Guesthouse
Altewelkom Guesthouse is situated in the city of Klerksdorp. Our name, Alte Welkom, explains our sincerity to make people feel at home. Our facil...
Why Not Guest Lodge
Why Not Guest Lodge is situated on the N12 in Bloemhof, making it the perfect place to have a well deserved night's rest or enjoy a delicious mea...
La Fleur Guesthouse
La Fleur Guesthouse offers bed and breakfast accommodation in Potchefstroom. We pride ourselves on our picturesque rose-filled garden that offers...
African Elephants Den
African Elephant's Den offers accommodation in Stilfontein, along the N12 Treasure Route and is situated 180km south west of Johannesburg or 320k...
Noteworthy attractions
Barberspan Bird Sanctuary
Regarded as one of the largest waterfowl sanctuaries in Southern Africa, Barberspan Bird Sanctuary is a huge 2000 hectare body of water that is R...
Bloemhof Dam Nature Reserve
Bloemhof Dam Nature Reserve lies on the North West province side of the Bloemhof Dam, on the dam’s northern shores. Regarded as one of the larges...
Boskop Dam Nature Reserve
The Boskop Dam Nature Reserve is 3000 hectares of rolling grasslands that offer visitors sightings of black wildebeest, springbok, red hartebeest...
SA Lombard Nature Reserve
One of the earliest wildlife conservation research centres in the country, the SA Lombard Nature Reserve is the park credited with saving the bla...
Wolwespruit Nature Reserve
The Wolwespruit Nature Reserve lies on the Vaal River and is one of the least known of the parks in the North West province, possibly because of ...
Orkney Golf Club
Orkney Golf Course is a tree-linked parkland course with undulating greens. It has thirty-one bunkers and five water features as well as the Vaal...
Potchefstroom Golf Club
Set in beautiful surroundings, with hundreds of willow trees lining the banks of the Mooi River which winds through the property, Potchefstroom G...
Klerksdorp Museum
Located in Margarieta Prinsloo & Lombaard Street, the Klerksdorp museum also offers Peach Mampoer & Soet Blits liqueurs. A former prison this bea...
Faan Meintjies Nature Reserve
For bird enthusiasts the Faan Meintjies Nature Reserve often forms part of a bird spotting tour and is regarded as a place for ‘serious’ birding....
Find accommodation in Christiana
FIND / South Africa Accommodation / North West Province Accommodation / Southern Region Accommodation / Christiana Accommodation