The Diamond Fields region is found in the north eastern corner of the Northern Cape.  Kimberley is the principal city of this region, famous for the Big Hole and the Diamond rush!

Many old buildings, museums and one of South Africa’s most important art galleries lend an historic ambience to the city that thrust its way to prominence during the diamond rush. A reconstruction of the original ‘rush town’ stands alongside the incredible Big Hole, the largest hand-dug excavation in the world, offering visitors insight into the lives of those who lived and worked through the dreams and nightmares of a vibrant history we take for granted. 

Some other towns in the Diamond Fields region include Barkley West, Jan Kempdorp and Warrenton.

During the Anglo-Boer War, Kimberley was besieged by the Boers for four months. In this time, many heroes rose to prominence. Boer forces surrounding Kimberley showed how a determined, small and under-resourced force could keep the British army at bay for months. But Kimberley’s diamond story and siege are part of only the most recent history here.

A rich archeological heritage, including stunning examples of ancient rock engravings, reflects a past that reaches back to the very origin of humankind.

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