Big Hole and Open Mine Museum: Exploring the Fascinating History of Kimberley
When you visit South Africa, you will come across a plethora of interesting attractions, from wildlife safaris to a vibrant nightlife. But if you want to explore the country’s unique history, then a visit to the Big Hole and Open Mine Museum in Kimberley is a must.
Located in the Northern Cape region of South Africa, the Big Hole and Open Mine Museum is a living reminder of the diamond mining industry that shaped the town of Kimberley in the 19th century. Here, you can explore historical artifacts, buildings, and stories from the diamond rush era, which is sure to provide you with an unforgettable experience.
A Brief History of the Big Hole and Open Mine Museum
The town of Kimberley was founded in the mid-1800s after the discovery of diamond deposits in the area. Soon, thousands of prospectors from all over the world flocked to the area, hoping to strike it big. This led to the birth of the diamond mining industry, which in turn transformed Kimberley into a bustling industrial town.
The Big Hole and Open Mine Museum is a living reminder of this era. It was established in 1971 and includes a variety of historical artifacts, buildings, and displays that tell the story of the diamond rush. The museum is also home to the world’s largest hand-dug excavation, known as the Big Hole.
What to Expect at the Big Hole and Open Mine Museum
The Big Hole and Open Mine Museum is a great educational experience for visitors of all ages. Here, you can learn about the history of the diamond mining industry in the area, as well as the impact it had on the town of Kimberley.
The museum is divided into two sections: the Big Hole and the Open Mine Museum. The Big Hole is the site of the world’s largest hand-dug excavation. It measures over 800 meters in diameter and is over 215 meters deep. You can explore the area on foot and learn about the history of diamond mining.
The Open Mine Museum consists of a variety of exhibits that tell the story of the diamond mining industry in the area. Here you can find historical artifacts, such as tools used in the excavation, as well as buildings that were used during the diamond rush era. There is also a diamond recovery plant, where you can watch the process of diamond extraction.
How to Visit the Big Hole and Open Mine Museum
The Big Hole and Open Mine Museum are open seven days a week. You can access the museum via the N12 highway, which connects Kimberley to Johannesburg. The museum is open from 9 AM to 5 PM on weekdays, and from 9 AM to 3 PM on weekends.
Admission to the museum is free, and you can explore the area at your own pace. However, it may be advisable to book a guided tour, as this will give you an even greater insight into the history of the diamond mining industry in the area.
Conclusion
The Big Hole and Open Mine Museum are sure to provide you with an unforgettable experience. Here, you can explore the history of the diamond mining industry in the area and learn about its impact on the town of Kimberley. Whether you’re a history buff or just looking for an interesting experience, a visit to the Big Hole and Open Mine Museum is sure to provide you with an unforgettable experience.