Four facts about Gqeberha you may not know
Gqeberha or Port Elizabeth is city filled with natural beauty and amazing history – but did you know these four interesting facts?
Nestled along South Africa’s southeastern coast, the urban hub of Gqeberha offers a unique blend of heritage and modernity, making it a captivating destination for both residents and visitors. Here are four interesting facts you may not know about the city…
1. A name reflecting heritage
In February 2021, Port Elizabeth underwent a significant transformation with the official change of its name to Gqeberha. This change was part of a broader effort to embrace and honour the indigenous heritage of the region.
The name “Gqeberha” comes from the Xhosa name for the Baakens River, a prominent waterway that flows through the city. This renaming is more than symbolic however; it represents a step toward recognizing the deep cultural roots of the area.
2. Big seven safaris
For wildlife lovers, Gqeberha is the gateway to a unique safari experience. Just a short drive away is the Addo Elephant National Park, where visitors can embark on a “Big Seven” safari. This extraordinary experience includes sightings of the traditional Big Five, which are the lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, and rhino, as well as the southern right whale and the great white shark, both of which can be spotted in the adjacent marine reserve.
3. A sporting powerhouse
Sports are a significant part of life in Gqeberha, with rugby and cricket taking center stage. The St George’s Park Cricket Ground is particularly noteworthy, as it is the second-oldest test cricket venue in the world. In 1889, it hosted the first-ever Test match played outside England or Australia, cementing its place in the annals of cricket history.
4. Diverse flora and natural beauty
Situated within the Cape Floristic Region, one of the world’s biodiversity hotspots, Gqeberha is surrounded by rich and diverse vegetation. The Alexandria Coastal Dune Fields, located nearby, are the largest in the Southern Hemisphere, offering a spectacular natural landscape. The city’s proximity to such unique ecological areas makes it a popular destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.