Tzaneen Museum:
The Tzaneen Museum is
a small but fascinating museum, which was opened in August 1995. The
permanent exhibition is made up of ethnological artifacts of the
area. This includes weapons, pottery, beadwork, the largest
collection of pole carvings in the country, royal drums from the
Rain Queen Modjadji, sacred drums as well as general utensils as
used in every day life.
Known as the capital of the "Land of the Silver Mist", this
picturesque village lies just off the R71 between Pietersburg and
Tzaneen. The village originated as a "gold rush town" in 1887 and
remains of the old workings can still be seen. Enjoy the spectacular
mountain views and the very special serenity found at the hilltop
cemetery, 1km from the village and well worth the steep drive or
climb!
The unusual War Memorial and Long Tom Monument commemorate those of
all race, colour and creed from the area who gave their lives in
various wars over the last century, and are dedicated to future
peace.
DUIWELSKLOOF:
Another picturesque village, Duiwelskloof lies in a valley with
panoramic vistas on the surrounding Wolkberg Mountains. Following
rain the view is crisp and clear but misty days softens the view to
a mysterious wonderland of mountains and wilderness. From
Duiwelskloof the visitor is within easy reach of Mooketsi Valley
(largest tomato production area in the country), the Modjadji Nature
Reserve (containing the largest natural concentration of a single
cycad species in the world - Encephalartos transvenosus), the
largest Baobab tree in the world (with a pub inside the tree) and
the Duiwelskloof Waterfall and picnic site.
LETSITELE:
The name Letsitele is derived from the name of the Letsitele River.
Letsitele means "Valley of the Dead" in the Sotho language.
Agricultural development in the area started in 1914. Meaningful
development could only take place after 1950 when Dr Siegfried
Annecke managed to bring the devastating effect of malaria under
control. The Letaba River is the main source of water to the area
and most of the agricultural development is dependent on its
life-giving waters. The Letsitele farming community represents
the largest citrus production area in the country. High quality
Valencia oranges and the best quality Texas Star Ruby grapefruit in
the world are produced here. A big fruit juice factory adds
additional value to the area's produce. A variety of vegetables are
also produced around Letsitele. The well-known Hans Merensky Nature
Reserve is located in the district as well as a number of game
farms.
SOEKMEKAAR:
Soekmekaar is situated on the edge of the escarpment northwest of
Tzaneen. Soekmekaar has a high rainfall with a moderate climate. The
surrounding farmers produce potatoes, granadillas, maize, timber,
avocado's, guavas, strawberries, mangoes, tomatoes and cattle. Game
farming is well established in the area. |
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