Northern Cape Legislature Building

Why Kimberley Matters

Kimberley has played an extraordinary role in South Africa's history for more than 150 years.


From diamonds and the Great Diamond Rush to war, political change and the growth of the international diamond industry, the city has helped shape modern South Africa.


These pages are an informal journey through the people, places and events that made Kimberley remarkable. Make yourself comfortable and enjoy exploring the story of one of South Africa's most fascinating cities.

Not a historic building in terms of time, but a historic building in terms of design. The Northern Cape's Legislature building in Kimberley was opened in February 2003 by then Deputy President Jacob Zuma and Premier Manne Dipicio. It is a truly inspiring work of art in terms of the creativity that has been unleashed in its construction and is a must-see for locals and tourists alike.
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Northern Cape Legislature Building. (Photo by Richard Jones)

This striking building reflects Kimberley and the Northern Cape’s culture, nature and history. The cone-shaped brown tower, studded with tiles and the faces of South African icons, resembles the outlandish plants and trees found in the province’s open spaces. The main buildings recall the rock facades and corrugated iron that dominated early Kimberley, and walkways flow between them like the province’s long roads.
The buildings of this legislature complex fall around a central kraal or gathering place like a sangoma's bones. From the air it can be seen that the outer walls as you approach the Legislature are in the shape of buffalo horns protecting the kraal. Local context was of prime importance to architects Luis Ferreira da Silva who won the design competition that launched the project. Thus it was also a prime motivator for the landscape, the aim of which was to provide an apparently natural setting for the indigenous buildings. Only plants occurring naturally in the province were used, and stonework evokes local textures.
​ (Photos by Richard Jones)

Continue Exploring Kimberley

Whether your interests lie in history, culture, dining, shopping, entertainment, or simply discovering somewhere new, we hope these guides help you make the most of your time in Kimberley. If you're planning a visit to the City that Sparkles, Solomon Edwardian Guest House offers elegant accommodation in the historic suburb of Beaconsfield. Ideally situated for business and leisure travellers alike, The Solomon provides a comfortable base from which to explore.