Travel Guide to Bloemfontein
Discover Bloemfontein: South Africa's City of Roses, where history, culture, and nature converge in a tranquil and welcoming setting.
Bloemfontein: The City of Roses and Judicial Heart of South Africa
Bloemfontein, often referred to as the 'City of Roses', is a charming and serene destination in the heart of South Africa. As the judicial capital of the country, it holds a unique place in South African history and governance. The city's name, meaning 'Fountain of Flowers' in Dutch, is a testament to its many beautiful rose gardens and lush parks that delight visitors throughout the year. A visit to Bloemfontein offers a blend of historical intrigue and natural beauty. The city houses the National Museum, where you can explore South Africa's rich cultural and natural heritage. The Oliewenhuis Art Museum, set in a grand Cape Dutch mansion, showcases an impressive collection of South African art. Don't miss the Naval Hill Planetarium, which offers stunning views of the night sky and the city below. Nature enthusiasts will revel in the Franklin Game Reserve, located in the city center, and the Free State National Botanical Garden, which features a diverse array of indigenous plants. Bloemfontein's warm hospitality and slower pace make it a perfect retreat for travelers looking to experience South Africa beyond the bustling metropolises.
Local tips in Bloemfontein
- Visit during the annual Bloemfontein Rose Festival in October to see the city in full bloom and enjoy various cultural events.
- Explore the Franklin Game Reserve early in the morning or late afternoon for the best chance to see wildlife.
- Use local transport services like taxis or hire a car to navigate the city more conveniently.
- Try traditional South African cuisine at local eateries for an authentic taste of the region.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes as many attractions are within walking distance in the city center.
Popular Attractions in Bloemfontein
Bloemfontein, the judicial capital of South Africa, offers visitors a rich history and cultural experience. Explore the Anglo-Boer War Museum and the National Women's Memorial to learn about the city's past, or visit the Oliewenhuis Art Museum for a taste of local art and culture. Nature lovers can wander through the Free State National Botanical Garden or take a hike in the Franklin Nature Reserve. For a bit of fun, head to the Windmill Casino and Entertainment Centre or catch a rugby match at the Free State Stadium. With its mix of history, culture, and entertainment, Bloemfontein has something to offer every type of traveler.
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Explore the artistic treasures and natural beauty at Oliewenhuis Art Museum, a cultural landmark in Bloemfontein, South Africa.
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Discover the tranquil beauty of Free State National Botanical Garden in Bloemfontein, a vibrant showcase of South Africa's native flora.
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Explore the iconic Nelson Mandela Statue in Bloemfontein, a symbol of freedom and hope surrounded by breathtaking views.
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Explore the War Museum of the Boer Republics for a deep dive into South Africa's historical legacy and the Boer War's profound impact.
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Explore the treasures of South African natural and cultural history at the National Museum Bloemfontein, a captivating destination for all ages.
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Discover the poignant history of South Africa through Die Nasionale Vrouemonument, a tribute to the strength and resilience of women.
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Discover Gwenbali Waterworld, Bloemfontein's ultimate water park for thrilling slides, relaxing pools, and unforgettable family fun.
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Explore Modenso Park in Bloemfontein - a serene oasis with lush landscapes, playful attractions for kids, and perfect spots for picnics.
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Explore the natural beauty and rich heritage of Naval Hill Nature Reserve, a stunning escape in Bloemfontein surrounded by wildlife and breathtaking views.
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Discover the beauty of the cosmos at the Naval Hill Planetarium in Bloemfontein, an immersive experience for all ages.
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Explore the tranquil beauty of Seven Dams, a nature preserve in Bloemfontein offering diverse wildlife and serene walking trails.
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Explore the serene landscapes and rich biodiversity at Brandkop Conservancy in Bloemfontein, a perfect nature retreat for tourists.
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Explore the South African Armour Museum: A captivating journey through military history and armored vehicles.
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Explore the Old Presidency Museum in Bloemfontein, where South Africa's history comes alive through captivating exhibits and rich heritage.
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Discover the tranquil beauty of Botaniese Tuine in Bloemfontein, a perfect hiking spot for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
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Explore the stunning architecture and rich history of Mangaung City Hall, a must-visit historical attraction in Bloemfontein, South Africa.
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Discover the enchanting beauty of Kings Park Rose Garden, Bloemfontein's vibrant floral oasis with over 4,000 stunning rose varieties.
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Discover the iconic Bloemfontein White Horse, a symbol of local heritage, offering stunning views and rich history in the heart of South Africa.
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Explore the heart of Afrikaans literature at the National Afrikaans Literary Museum and Research Centre, a cultural gem in Bloemfontein.
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Experience the thrill of adventure at Elude Escape Rooms in Bloemfontein, where challenging puzzles and teamwork come together for unforgettable fun.
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Explore the Volksie Museum in Bloemfontein, where vintage Volkswagen cars and memorabilia come to life, showcasing a rich automotive history.
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Discover the thrill of adventure surrounded by natural beauty at Boomrits Adventures in Bloemfontein.
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Explore the rich history of Bloemfontein at the Freshford House Museum, where fascinating exhibits bring the past to life.
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Explore the First Raadsaal Museum in Bloemfontein, where South Africa's political history comes alive through engaging exhibits and artifacts.
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Discover the beauty of Heuwelsig Nature Reserve, a peaceful retreat in Bloemfontein, perfect for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
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Explore the serene beauty of Bewarea Conservancy, a nature preserve in Bloemfontein, where wildlife and tranquility await your discovery.
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Explore the tranquil beauty of Hamilton Park in Bloemfontein, a perfect escape for nature lovers and families seeking relaxation.
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Discover the tranquility of Willows Park in Bloemfontein, where nature meets leisure in a beautiful, inviting environment.
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Discover the breathtaking landscapes and invigorating trails of 7 Damme, a premier hiking destination in Bloemfontein, South Africa.
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Discover tranquility at Universitas Public Park in Bloemfontein, where nature meets relaxation in a beautiful urban oasis.
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Discover the Bloemfontein Eiffel Tower – a charming replica offering a unique blend of culture and tranquility in Hamilton, South Africa.
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Explore the natural beauty of Pikkie Park Conservancy in Bloemfontein, a serene escape for nature lovers and a perfect spot for family outings.
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Experience the serene beauty of Heuwelsig Park, a tranquil escape in Bloemfontein, perfect for relaxation and outdoor activities.
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Explore the captivating history and culture of South Africa at the Grey Museum in Bloemfontein, a must-see for every traveler.
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Discover the serene beauty of Swan Lake, Bloemfontein's tranquil park, perfect for relaxation, picnics, and nature walks amidst stunning landscapes.
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Explore the serene beauty of Kings Park in Bloemfontein, a lush escape perfect for relaxation and outdoor adventures.
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Explore the Fourth Raadsaal, a historical landmark in Bloemfontein, rich in culture and architectural beauty, perfect for history lovers and casual tourists.
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Discover the rich military history of South Africa at the Queens Fort Military Museum in Bloemfontein, a must-visit for history enthusiasts.
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Discover the tranquility of Welthagen Park, a serene escape in Bloemfontein, perfect for relaxation and nature appreciation.
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Discover Hertzog Park, a tranquil oasis in Bloemfontein, perfect for relaxation, picnics, and enjoying the scenic beauty of South Africa.
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Explore the natural beauty and tranquility of Bayswater North Ecological Park, a serene escape in Bloemfontein, perfect for nature lovers and families.
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Explore the architectural elegance of Bloemfontein's City Hall, a historic landmark showcasing Edwardian design in the heart of South Africa.
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Experience the natural beauty and tranquility of Crawford Park, a serene oasis in Bloemfontein perfect for relaxation and outdoor activities.
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Discover the serene beauty of the Bird Sanctuary in Bloemfontein, a nature lover's paradise with diverse avian species and lush landscapes.
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Kolperd Park: A peaceful retreat in Bloemfontein, ideal for relaxation, picnics, and outdoor activities amidst nature's beauty.
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Discover the tranquility of Sanbi Park in Bloemfontein, where nature's beauty meets a peaceful retreat for visitors of all ages.
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Experience the tranquility and natural beauty of Shellyvale Park, a perfect ecological escape in Bloemfontein, South Africa.
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Experience the tranquil beauty of Ramanala BFN, a serene escape in Bloemfontein, perfect for nature lovers and cultural explorers alike.
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Explore the serene beauty of Reitz Park in Bloemfontein, a perfect escape into nature with lush landscapes and vibrant community events.
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Experience the serene beauty of On Tat Estate Park, a tranquil oasis in Bloemfontein perfect for relaxation and outdoor adventures.
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Discover the breathtaking views and serene landscapes at Signal Hill, Bloemfontein's hidden gem for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Your Ultimate Travel Guide to Bloemfontein
When is the best time to go to Bloemfontein?
Local Phrases
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- HelloHallo
[hah-loh] - GoodbyeTotsiens
[toht-see-ens] - YesJa
[yah] - NoNee
[nee] - Please/You're welcomeAsseblief
[ah-suh-bleef] - Thank youDankie
[dahn-kee] - Excuse me/SorryJammer
[yahm-mehr] - How are you?Hoe gaan dit?
[hoo gahn deet] - Fine. And you?Goed. En jy?
[khoot. en yay] - Do you speak English?Praat jy Engels?
[praht yay ehng-uhls] - I don't understandEk verstaan nie
[ayk fehr-stahn nee]
- HelloHallo
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- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseEk wil asseblief die spyskaart sien
[ayk vil ah-suh-bleef dee spees-kahrt seen] - I don't eat meatEk eet nie vleis nie
[ayk eet nee flays nee] - Cheers!Gesondheid!
[ghuh-sunt-hate] - I would like to pay, pleaseEk wil asseblief betaal
[ayk vil ah-suh-bleef buh-tahl]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseEk wil asseblief die spyskaart sien
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- Help!Help!
[help] - Go away!Gaan weg!
[kahn vehg] - Call the Police!Bel die Polisie!
[behl dee puh-lee-see] - Call a doctor!Bel 'n dokter!
[behl uhn dohk-tehr] - I'm lostEk is verlore
[ayk is fehr-loh-ruh] - I'm illEk is siek
[ayk is seek]
- Help!Help!
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- I'd like to buy...Ek wil ... koop
[ayk vil ... kohp] - I'm just lookingEk kyk net
[ayk kihk neht] - How much is it?Hoeveel kos dit?
[hoo-feel kohs deet] - That's too expensiveDit is te duur
[deet is teh duhr] - Can you lower the price?Kan jy die prys laat sak?
[kahn yay dee prace laht sahk]
- I'd like to buy...Ek wil ... koop
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- What time is it?Hoe laat is dit?
[hoo laht is deet] - It's one o'clockDit is een uur
[deet is ayn oor] - Half past (10)Half tien
[hahlf teehn] - MorningOggend
[oh-ghent] - AfternoonMiddag
[mih-dahk] - EveningAand
[ahnt] - YesterdayGister
[ghis-tehr] - TodayVandag
[fahn-dahk] - TomorrowMôre
[moh-ruh] - 1Een
[ayn] - 2Twee
[twee] - 3Drie
[dree] - 4Vier
[feer] - 5Vyf
[fayf] - 6Ses
[sehs] - 7Sewe
[seh-weh] - 8Agt
[ahgt] - 9Nege
[neh-ghuh] - 10Tien
[teehn]
- What time is it?Hoe laat is dit?
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- Where's a/the...?Waar is 'n/die...?
[vah-ahr is uhn/dee] - What's the address?Wat is die adres?
[vaht is dee ah-drehs] - Can you show me (on the map)?Kan jy vir my wys (op die kaart)?
[kahn yay feer may vees (ohp dee kahrt)] - When's the next (bus)?Wanneer is die volgende (bus)?
[vah-nehr is dee fuhl-guhn-deh (buhs)] - A ticket (to ....)'n Kaartjie (na ....)
[uhn kahrt-chee (nah)]
- Where's a/the...?Waar is 'n/die...?
History of Bloemfontein
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Bloemfontein, the capital city of the Free State Province, was founded in 1846 by Major Henry Douglas Warden as a British outpost in the region. It quickly grew from a simple military fortification to a bustling town due to its strategic location on the wagon route to the north.
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In 1854, the British handed over control of the area to the Boers, and Bloemfontein became the capital of the newly established Orange Free State. This period marked significant growth and development for the city, which saw the construction of important infrastructure, including government buildings and educational institutions.
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Bloemfontein played a pivotal role during the Anglo-Boer War (1899-1902). The city served as a major center for British military operations and was the site of the Bloemfontein Conference in 1899, which attempted but failed to prevent the war. The war had a profound impact on the city, resulting in significant damage and the establishment of concentration camps in the area.
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On January 8, 1912, the South African Native National Congress was founded in Bloemfontein, later renamed the African National Congress (ANC). This organization would go on to play a critical role in the struggle against apartheid and the establishment of a democratic South Africa.
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In 1910, with the formation of the Union of South Africa, Bloemfontein was designated as the judicial capital of the country. This status was solidified with the establishment of the Supreme Court of Appeal, making the city a key center for the country's legal system.
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Bloemfontein is often referred to as the 'City of Roses' due to the abundance of these flowers in the city and the annual Bloemfontein Rose Festival, which attracts tourists from all over the world. The city is also home to several museums, including the National Museum and the Anglo-Boer War Museum, which preserve its rich historical and cultural heritage.
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Today, Bloemfontein is a vibrant city that balances its historical significance with modern developments. It hosts numerous educational institutions, including the University of the Free State, and boasts a diverse population that contributes to its dynamic cultural landscape. The city's strategic location continues to make it a hub for transportation and commerce in the region.
Bloemfontein Essentials
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Bloemfontein, the capital city of the Free State province in South Africa, is accessible by various means. The Bram Fischer International Airport is the primary gateway, offering both domestic and limited international flights. From major South African cities like Johannesburg, Cape Town, and Durban, daily flights are available. Alternatively, you can reach Bloemfontein by road via the N1 Highway or by train through the Shosholoza Meyl long-distance train service.
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Bloemfontein offers a range of transportation options. The city's public transport primarily consists of minibuses and taxis. Car rentals are also readily available and provide the flexibility to explore at your own pace. Ride-sharing services like Uber and Bolt operate in the city, providing convenient and safe travel options. For short distances, walking is feasible in the city center, while cycling is gaining popularity.
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The official currency is the South African Rand (ZAR). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and shops. ATMs are easily accessible throughout the city. Mobile payment options such as SnapScan and Zapper are also gaining traction. It is advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and markets where card payments might not be accepted.
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Bloemfontein is generally considered safe for tourists, but it's essential to exercise standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night, especially in less populated areas. Areas such as the central business district (CBD) can be risky after dark. Petty crimes like pickpocketing can occur in crowded places, so keep your belongings secure. Always use registered taxis or ride-sharing services, and avoid accepting lifts from strangers.
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In case of emergency, dial 10111 for police assistance or 10177 for medical emergencies and ambulance services. Bloemfontein Mediclinic and Life Rosepark Hospital are well-equipped to handle medical emergencies. Pharmacies are available throughout the city for minor health issues. It's advisable to have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.
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Fashion: Do dress smart-casual. Avoid overly revealing clothing, especially in conservative areas. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. When visiting religious sites, dress modestly and remove your hat. Public Transport: Do be cautious of your belongings. Don't engage in loud conversations or eat on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake and a friendly smile. Using 'Sir' or 'Ma'am' is common and respectful. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes like 'bobotie' and 'biltong'. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.
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To experience Bloemfontein like a local, visit the Boeremark (Farmers Market) on Saturdays for fresh produce and local crafts. Engage with locals at coffee shops and eateries such as 'Stereo Café' and 'Koekela'. Don't miss the annual Bloem Show, which showcases local agriculture, entertainment, and culture. For a touch of history, visit the National Museum and the Anglo-Boer War Museum.
Trending Landmark in Bloemfontein
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Bloemfontein Tourist Centre
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Loch Logan Waterfront
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Langenhoven Mark/Market (Boeremark)
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Free State National Botanical Garden
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Famous Brew & Still
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War Museum of the Boer Republics Bloemfontein
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Jumper's Lane
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National Museum Bloemfontein
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Die Nasionale Vrouemonument
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Oliewenhuis Art Museum
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Modenso Park
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Zanchieta Wildlife Rescue
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Gwenbali Waterworld
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Kings Park Rose Garden
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Naval Hill Planetarium
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