NATURAL & HISTORICAL SITES

17 : Magagamatala

Magagamatala (1 247m) is the local name given to a large impressive sandstone buttress that defines the southern boundary of the Masebe Nature Reserve. The name refers to the green-colored lichen clinging to the 300 metre-high cliffs that tower above the meandering Mogalakwena River.

In 1854, fourteen Boer settlers, under the leadership of Hermanus Philippus Potgieter, were massacred at a place known as Fothane in a region of present day Bakenberg.  After the massacre, Chief Mankopane and his followers retreated to the summit of Magagamatala for safety from possible reprisal from the Boers. After various skirmishes, the stronghold was breached in 1858 on two sides, resulting in great loss of life in the ensuing crossfire.  Altogether some 800 people died with at least half falling to their deaths off the extreme cliff faces visible from the road.

On the west side of the road, the local Telekishi community has established a visitor centre (page 16) and will provide a guided tour of this historic site.