GROOTKERK, GRAAFF REINET
Entering from the South you drive up the long main road of Graaf Reinet. After greeting some friendly locals on your way you will find this historic church at the top end of … well, Church Street! The church is probably the most recognizable and photographed landmark in Graaff Reinet. The church which claims to be the third oldest congregation in the Eastern Cape was designed by James Bisset. He (Bisset) incorporated some features from the Salisbury Cathedral in England into this majestic design. The stone for the church was obtained locally and the church, which can seat 1,250, has a steeple of 45, 72 metres. It also boasts a chimney – rather an unusual feature for a church I would think! On the church list are some famous dominees (preachers). Andrew Murray as well as Dr D F Malan, who later became Prime Minister of South Africa, were some… Read more >
