The
vast open spaces of the Free State are the heart of South
Africa's farming country. Here over 70% of South Africa's
grain is produced which has earned the province the title
of the "bread basket' of South Africa. The province stretches
over the great central plateau of the interior of South Africa
and is symbolized by sunflowers, maize and the rich Free State
Goldfields.
In
the North the province benefits from the refreshing waters
of the Vaal River and the land is rich and fertile while the
South is formed mostly by the dry Karoo.
Substantial
mineral deposits are found in the Western part of the province
and the major towns of Bloemfontein and Welkom - together
with the goldfields - add to the wealth of the province.
The
Free State also holds some of the region's most famous Bushman
rock art, the Golden Gate Highlands National Park and enormous
dams that present good opportunities for a variety of water
sports and angling.
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