Overview

Genadendal lies in a fertile valley at the foot of the Riviersonderend Mountains in the Overberg region of the Western Cape. The village follows a compact street pattern arranged along both banks of the Baviaans River so that the two halves of the village leave the valley bottom for agricultural allotments. This configuration, with historic mission buildings, cottages, and farmland forming the core of the settlement, set the pattern for many subsequent mission settlements in the Western Cape. 

Map Design and Paper

The map is an original creation by our design studio at Africa Map Art. Data for this map has been compiled from various up-to-date sources including from the OpenStreetMap contributors. The map is available in four styles and on the following two paper options and canvas: a high quality 210gsm heavyweight coated paper with a matte finish, which achieves excellent colour and resolution and is perfect for framing;  a 260gsm photo paper with a smooth satin finish;  and a 350gsm strengthened canvas. All of the options are shipped in a cardboard roll for protection. The canvas is unstretched and unframed.  We welcome personalisation and customisation requests, such as highlighting of specific buildings or features, adjusting the colour scheme, or the addition of text and images.  Please contact us for a quote.

History

Genadendal (Vale of Grace) was established in 1738 by Moravian missionaries and is widely regarded as the oldest mission settlement in South Africa. Originally known as Baviaanskloof, the settlement became a centre for education, crafts, and agriculture among local communities. Throughout the 18th and 19th centuries the mission expanded into a structured village with schools, workshops, and farmland, leaving a legacy of historic buildings that still define the town today.