Braamfontein
While the Johannesburg suburb of Braamfontein has endured a colourful and at times controversial history, it undoubtedly has much to offer. Rich in history and boasting a strong cultural legacy, Braamfontein may not be the economic force it once was, but there is still enough to love and admire about this Gauteng stronghold.
Braamfontein is just minutes from the inner Johannesburg CBD and was founded as part of the city as far back as 1886. The area originally started out as just a farm, but grew and developed rapidly into a pivotal commercial hub that featured some of the city’s most vibrant and important businesses. However, Braamfontein lost much of its prestige and appeal as the Johannesburg Central Business District – of which it was a part of – moved to the city’s new economic capital in affluent Sandton. Unlike many of the other suburbs in the same boat, however, Braamfontein did not waste away into decay. In fact, thanks mainly to the city’s regeneration programme aimed at restoring these areas to what they were, Braamfontein has gained a new lease on life and has begun attracting businesses and investment opportunities once more.
A further benefit Braamfontein has going for it is its location. It is conveniently placed and gives travellers and residents alike easy and direct access to many of Johannesburg’s hottest and most popular attractions. The trendy neighbourhood of Newtown is moments away as is the Market Theatre and Kippies – a terrific jazz club. The Oriental Plaza is not much further than Newtown while other top attractions to visit include the Nelson Mandela Bridge, the Johannesburg Zoo, the Adler Museum of Medicine, and Constitution Hill.
