The birthplace of Jan Smuts

General Jan Christiaan Smuts was born on 24 May 1870 on the farm Bovenplaats, about two kilometres north of Riebeek West.

The Cape Dutch house where he spent his early childhood is now a national monument, furnished as it would have been in his time. It stands on the grounds of the PPC cement factory, so expect some noise and dust around it.

Riebeek West briefly became a political centre in 1948, when the leaders of both main parties in the general election came from the village.

Opening times can be irregular, so call ahead before you drive over.