Tourism, Accommodation and Historical Attractions in Natal, South Africa

Pietermaritzburg Concentration Camp.

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This camp with its 2,400 inhabitants including the wives of Generals JC Smuts and CR de Wet was partially erected as a punitive camp for "bittereinders" ('diehards') and were under military rule.

Like all concentration camps, the Pietermaritzburg camp, reverted to civilian rule during October 1901. This brought about an immediate improvement in Pietermaritzburg regarding in all amenities including housing with tents replaced by frame houses.

The Pietermaritzburg camp closed during December 1902. During the time of its existence approximately 195 deaths occurred. Those who died are honoured by two monuments in the Commercial Road cemetery.

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