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Pniel

South Africa / Western Cape / Stellenbosch /
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Pniel is set against the Simonsberg between Stellenbosch and Franschhoek and is surrounded by fruit orchards and vineyards. This pretty town was founded in 1834 when a philanthropic organisation purchased land and founded a mission station to house the emancipated and wandering slaves.
Rev. Johan Frederick Stegmann was the first reverend to guide and inspire the spiritual community and a belfry was erected in his honour in 1937. The United Congregation Church still stands at the centre of daily life of the mostly coloured community.
Must-see attractions of the town include the freedom monument which was erected in 1992 as a symbol to commemorate the freed slaves who were the first settlers of the mission station in 1834, the belfry that was erected for Rev. Johan Frederick Stegmann and the Pniel Congregational Church.
Attend some of the regular rugby and cricket matches held at the Pniel Sporting Complex, wander around in the fruit orchards or visit some of the many beautiful and interesting vineyards in the area. Pigeon racing is a popular pastime in this small town and an interesting phenomenon to experience.
The origin of the name is Biblical and comes from the end of Genesis Ch 32, where the account of Jacob wrestling an angel is given. The angel blessed him and said: “Thy name shall be called no more Jacob, but Israel: for as a prince hast thou power with God and with men, and hast prevailed” (vs 28)…And Jacob called the name of the place Peniel: for I have seen God face to face and my life is preserved.” (vs 30) – King James version.
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Coordinates:   33°53'48"S   18°57'29"E
This article was last modified 17 years ago