1. Pretoria's Name is Still Pending
Despite the fact that Pretoria is sometimes referred to as 'Tshwane', the city has yet to officially change its name. This has caused much controversy, with many people debating whether or not the name should be changed. The decision is still pending, leaving the city in limbo as to what its official name should be.
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Advertisement2. The City Named After A Hero Of The South African Revolution
The city of Pretoria was named after the late Andries Pretorius, a prominent figure in South African history who played a key role in the establishment of the South African Republic. His legacy lives on in the city, which is now the administrative capital of South Africa and home to a population of over 2 million people. Pretorius was a leader of the Boer forces during the Great Trek, and his victory at the Battle of Blood River in 1838 was a major milestone in the struggle for independence from the British Empire. His name is a reminder of the courage and determination of the Boer people in their fight for freedom.
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3. Pretoria experiences hottest temperature ever recorded
In January 2013, Pretoria experienced an unprecedented heatwave, with temperatures reaching an all-time high of 108 degrees Fahrenheit. This was the highest temperature ever recorded in the city, and it caused a great deal of discomfort for the residents of Pretoria. The heatwave lasted for several days, and the extreme temperatures caused a number of health issues for those living in the city. Fortunately, the heatwave eventually subsided, and the city returned to its more comfortable temperatures.
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4. UNISA: The University that boasts 300,000 students from 130 countries
The University of South Africa (UNISA) is a world mega university, boasting an impressive 300,000 students from 130 countries around the world. Located in Pretoria, South Africa, UNISA has been providing quality education since 1912, and has grown to become one of the largest universities in the world. With a wide range of courses and programs, UNISA is a leader in providing international students with the opportunity to gain a world-class education.
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Advertisement5. "Marching to Pretoria": A Traditional Folk Song
The song 'Marching to Pretoria' is a traditional folk song that refers to the South African city of Pretoria. It has been argued that the beginning of the song is the basis for the Beatles song 'I Am the Walrus', however John Lennon denied these claims. The song is believed to have originated in the late 19th century and is still popular today, with many versions of the song being performed by various artists. Despite John Lennon's denial, the similarities between the two songs remain a source of debate and speculation.
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6. Revolutionary Ice Rink in CO2 & Ammonia Power Sustainability
The Grove Mall Ice Rink in Pretoria is making history as the first ice rink in Africa to use a revolutionary combination of CO2 and Ammonia to create a skating surface. This innovative approach has resulted in a significant reduction in energy consumption and the use of nontoxic materials, making it a much more sustainable option for ice rinks. This is a major milestone for Pretoria and the continent of Africa, and a testament to the city's commitment to environmental sustainability.
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7. Pretoria's Burgers Park: Monument & Tourist Hotspot
Pretoria is home to the oldest park in the city, Burgers Park, which has been declared a South African National Monument. This park is a testament to the city's rich history, and is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. It features a variety of attractions, including a pond, a fountain, and a variety of trees and plants. The park also hosts a number of events throughout the year, such as concerts, festivals, and art exhibitions. Burgers Park is a must-see for anyone visiting Pretoria, and is a great way to experience the city's culture and history.
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Advertisement8. Pretoria never sees snow, despite sightings in 1959, 1968 and 2012
Pretoria, the capital of South Africa, has never seen a significant accumulation of snow in its history, despite snow being spotted in the city in 1959, 1968 and 2012. These sightings were isolated incidents, with no snow settling on the ground.
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9. Church Street: The World's Longest Urban Street
Church Street, the main street of Pretoria, is an impressive feat of engineering. At a whopping 8.3 km long, it is the longest urban street in Pretoria and one of the longest straight streets in the world. It is a major thoroughfare for the city, connecting the suburbs to the city centre and providing access to many of Pretoria's attractions.
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10. Embassies Flock to 2nd Most Popular Destination
Pretoria, the administrative capital of South Africa, is the second most popular destination for embassies in the world, after Washington D.C. With over 130 embassies and consulates, Pretoria is a hub for international relations and diplomacy. It is home to embassies from countries such as the United States, China, India, and the United Kingdom, as well as many other countries from around the world. This makes Pretoria an important center for international relations and diplomacy, and a key player in the global political landscape.
