The first tent was pitched in Johannesburg’s oldest neighbourhood, Ferreirasdorp, in 1886, making it the oldest component of the city’s constantly bustling metropolis. It began as a neighbourhood on a mining farm that was slated to develop into a hub for gold mining. But it has changed and flourished over time, being home to many significant heritage sites while maintaining a terrific feel.
Formerly known as Ferreira’s Township, Ferreirasdorp is lovingly referred to as “The Cradle of Johannesburg.” The first gold was discovered here, and these intrepid miners quickly established camp.
Today, the suburb is home to a wide variety of unique locations. These include the St. Alban’s Mission Church, which was built in 1898, the Chancellor House (where the late president, Nelson Mandela, and Oliver Tambo had their law offices), the Ferreira’s Mine stope (or access tunnel), the location of Ferreira’s Camp and Wagon, and the St. Alban’s Mine stope.
Ferreirasdorp is a fascinating and entertaining place to stroll through. The former Gold Miner’s Camp Museum offers a moving look at the challenging circumstances in which miners lived and worked. Most of them were immigrants from nearby African nations who were in dire need of money to survive. On Fox Street in Ferreirasdorp, the Joburg Market is teeming with exquisite arts and crafts, attractive clothing, delectable cuisine, and a variety of unique souvenirs.
The Sci-Bono Discovery Center, which is next to the museum, is a great place for the whole family to immerse themselves in the fields of math and science.
Ferreirasdorp is located around 16 kilometres from Sandton, South Africa’s premier shopping district, and 27 kilometres from OR Tambo International Airport.
