Kimberley Mine Museum (The Big Hole)
AVAILABLE: Guided Tours | Family Friendly | Accommodation | OPEN: Monday – Sunday | MORE INFO: Museum Website | Phone: +27 (0)53 839 4600
Introduction
The Kimberley Mine Museum in the Northern Cape is an exciting and educational destination for anyone interested in diamonds and the history of diamond mining. The museum is located next to the famous Kimberley Big Hole, which is a massive excavation that was once a working diamond mine. With a wealth of attractions, activities, and history to explore, the Kimberley Mine Museum is a must-visit for anyone in the area.
The Kimberley Big Hole
The Kimberley Big Hole is one of the most impressive sights in South Africa, and a visit to the museum provides a unique opportunity to see it up close. Over 150 years ago, the site of the Big Hole was just a featureless hill, but when word spread that diamonds had been discovered, thousands of prospectors arrived to try their luck. Using nothing but picks, shovels, and hope, they created the largest hand-dug excavation in the world.
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Today, the Big Hole is considered one of the deepest cavities ever excavated by man, with a depth of 200 meters and a surface area of 17 hectares. The Big Hole is surrounded by original buildings from the heyday of the mine, which have been relocated to form an unforgettable open-air visitor experience.
The Visitor Centre
The Visitor Centre at the Kimberley Mine Museum is a hub of activity and information. Here, guests can learn all about the history of diamonds and the people who sought them. The multi-faceted story of diamonds is told through exhibits and displays, including the tools that were used to extract them and the wealth they generated. Visitors can also join a tour with a Site Guide and see the Big Hole from the safety of the viewing platform. The Visitor Centre is wheelchair-friendly and staffed by qualified First Aid personnel, so everyone can enjoy their visit.
The Old Town
For those interested in history, the Old Town is a must-see. This area brings the New Rush era to life, showcasing the period buildings that were preserved or restored to their original glory. Here, you can see a church built in Europe and shipped to Kimberley, Barney Barnato’s boxing academy, the digger’s sleeping quarters, and the De Beers railway coach used by Cecil John Rhodes. With so much history to explore, the Old Town is a fascinating destination for anyone interested in the past.
What To Do
There is no shortage of things to see and do at the Kimberley Mine Museum. Guests can take a tour, watch a 20-minute movie about the Big Hole, and experience the underground experience for a unique perspective on the excavation. The diamond vault and the Pulsator Building provide more information about the process of recovering rough diamonds, while the old town and the shopping areas offer a chance to pick up souvenirs and gifts. For the kids, there’s the Diamond Dig and Skittle Alley, and for everyone, there are restaurants like the Occidental Bar and the Australian Arms Guest House.
Photo Gallery
Physical Location
Conclusion
The Kimberley Mine Museum in the Northern Cape is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in diamonds and the history of diamond mining. With its rich history, incredible sights, and wealth of activities and attractions, the museum provides an unforgettable experience that is not to be missed.
