The
capital of Lesotho, Maseru is located in the western region of the country. The city is located close to the border between Lesotho and South Africa. The Mohokare (Caledon) River is also in proximity with the city of Maseru. The latitude and longitude of the city are 29 º19’S and 27 º28’E, respectively.
Maseru, originally a small town in the land of Lesotho, became the capital of the British dominated Basutoland in the year 1869. Previously, the capital of Lesotho was Thaba Bosiu. However, after independence from the UK in 1966, Maseru was declared the capital of the Kingdom of Lesotho. Maseru, the Lesotho capital city, also serves as an important trade center and one of the major economic centers of the country. The chief agricultural products of Maseru include livestock, wool, skins, hides and grain.
Some of the significant tourist destinations in the capital of Lesotho are described below:
- The Catholic Cathedral of our Lady of Victories – One of the famous colonial buildings in the city of Maseru, this church is located right at the entrance of the city and is a must see for the tourists.
- The Papal Pavilion – A memento confirming the visit of Pope to the Lesotho kingdom.
- Thorkild Hand Weaving – One of the famous centers that weave as well as sell the traditional products of Lesotho.
- Moteng Weavers – Another important center of hand weaving.
- Lancer's Gap – Presents fantastic views of the entire city as well as the Caledon Valley and has previously been the site of one of the 1852 battles.
Maseru, the capital city of Lesotho has witnessed various turbulent phases in the past. The destruction carried out by the SADC, the riots, the violence have left many ravages to the small town of Maseru. The urbanization of Maseru was an elongated process that continued for years. In recent times, the capital of Lesotho has emerged as a modern town with numerous hotels, restaurants, shops and other attractions.
Maseru can be well accessed from various places across the world. Some of the important airports situated near the city of Maseru are served by regular domestic as well as international flights. The three nearest airports to Maseru are listed below:
- Mejametalana Airport
- Ficksburg Sentraoes Airport
- Moshoeshoe I International Airport
Other modes of transportation include the roadways and the railway services that connect the capital city of Maseru with other South African cities.
Some of the hotels that provide accommodation in Lesotho are as follows:
- Lesotho Sun
- Maseru Sun
- Victoria Hotel
- Khali Hotel
- Lakeside Hotel
- Lancers Inn
