Heidelberg, Gauteng - Definition and Overview

Heidelberg is a South African town situated at the foot of the Suikerbosrand (Sugarbush Ridge) next to the N3 highway, which connects Johannesburg and Durban. Heidelberg began in 1862 as a trading station built by a German HJ Uekermann. A town was laid out around the store and named after Uekermann's alma mater.

Heidelberg is some 50 kilometres south-east of Johannesburg, close to the Mpumalanga border. Just south of the town is the De Hoek toll plaza on the newest section of the N3, which opened in December 2001.

Heidelberg sits nestled at the eastern end of the Suikerbosrand Nature Reserve, a large tract of land that is home to Gauteng's highest point, almost 2000 metres above sea level.

Heidelberg has played an important part in the South African history acting as an capital for the Boer republic during the war with Great Britain. In addition Heidelberg was home to A G Visser a famous South African poet. His home while not open to the public can still be seen situated close the main road through town. Historical landmarks in the town include AG Visser's bust and the klip kerk ( Stone church ). The British built a concentration camp here during the Boer War to house Boer women and children.

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