Bethlehem, nestled in the eastern Free State of South Africa, stands as a vibrant hub of commerce, industry, and education. Renowned as the largest center of its kind in the region, Bethlehem has long been regarded as the northern terminus of the famed ‘mountain route.’ Its name, “Bethlehem,” meaning “house of bread,” reflects the fertile valley where wheat thrived, providing sustenance for the early settlers.
The town experienced significant growth with the introduction of rail connections to Bloemfontein, Harrismith, and Johannesburg, enhancing its accessibility and economic prospects.
A short distance from Bethlehem lies a cairn of rocks, holding deep significance for the Sotho people of Lesotho. This sacred site served as a ritual for mine workers commuting to the Witwatersrand gold mines. As they embarked on their journey, they would place a stone on the pile, invoking the protection of their ancestors against accidents in the mines. Upon their return home, they would again add a stone, expressing gratitude for a safe passage.
