Name: Peter Mokaba Stadium, Polokwane
Built: 2010
Cost: $150 million
Capacity: 46,000
Home to: No Clubs
WORLD CUP MATCHES
June 13, Algeria vs. Slovenia
June 17, France vs. Mexico
June 22, Greece vs. Argentina
June 24, Paraguay vs. New Zealand
Trivia:Didier Drogba made his international debut for the Ivory Coast at the old Peter Mokaba stadium.
VENUE INFORMATION
Few grounds in South Africa can compete with the Peter
Mokaba venue in terms of historical signifcance.
The stadium was named after one of the renowned sons of the struggle and emancipation of South Africa against the apartheid regime.
The new stadium, built next to the old Peter Mokaba stadium so rich in history, borrows from the surrounding landscape, highlighted by the supporting roof structures which borrow nature's design from the local Baobab tree.
CITY INFORMATION
Situated at the center of the Limpopo Province, Polokwane is
a diverse city of just over 500,000 inhabitants. Surrounded by
majestic mountains, this city is home to the famous upside down
‘Baobab,’ the largest and most iconic tree in
Africa.
HISTORY
Originally known as Pietersburg, Polokwane means
‘Place of Safety’ to the region’s locals. It is
surrounded by three of South Africa’s neighbors –
Botswana, Zimbabwe and Mozambique. It is also an archeological
hotbed with the region’s first settlers, the Mapungubwe,
having arrived over 2,000 years ago. If the history of evolution
thrills you, then you’ve come to the right place. Makapan's
Cave is an aspiring paleontologist’s dream with deposits
tracing back to the dawn of man. However, if you wish to visit the
famous cave, you need to have a permit in advance.
ACCOMODATION
Polokwane is also a city that knows how to relax and one of
the best places to do that after a busy day of sightseeing is the
Jembe Tavern. Locals and tourists alike pack the place each and
every night of the week. But if you’re interested in throwing
down some cards, then Meropa Casino and Entertainment World is the
place to go.
