Windhoek Map

Description:

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Description:

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Windhoek is the capital and largest city of Namibia, located in the country's central highlands at an elevation of approximately 5,600 feet (1,700 meters). The city serves as the political, cultural, and economic center of the nation, with a population of roughly 486,000 residents as of 2023. The name "Windhoek" is derived from the Afrikaans language, meaning "windy corner," though some suggest it comes from the German "Wind-Ecke."

The city was officially founded in 1890 by German colonial troops, although various indigenous groups, including the Nama and Herero people, had inhabited the area long before European settlement. During German colonial rule (1884-1915), Windhoek developed as an important administrative center. After World War I, when South Africa took control of the territory, the city continued to grow and modernize, eventually becoming the capital of independent Namibia in 1990.

Notable landmarks in Windhoek include the Independence Memorial Museum, a striking modern building chronicling Namibia's path to independence, and the Christuskirche, a Lutheran church built in 1907 combining neo-Gothic and Art Nouveau architectural styles. The Alte Feste, an old German fort, now houses historical exhibits, while the National Museum of Namibia showcases the country's cultural heritage. The modern Supreme Court building and Tintenpalast (the Parliament building) represent significant governmental institutions.

The city experiences a semi-arid climate with hot summers and mild winters. Average annual rainfall is approximately 14.7 inches (370 millimeters), occurring mainly during the summer months from November to March. Windhoek's economy is diverse, encompassing government services, financial services, transportation, and manufacturing. The city hosts the country's only international airport, Hosea Kutako International Airport, located about 28 miles (45 kilometers) east of the city center.

Educational institutions in Windhoek include the University of Namibia and the Namibia University of Science and Technology, making it the primary center for higher education in the country. The city's infrastructure is well-developed by African standards, with modern telecommunications, transportation systems, and healthcare facilities. The Independence Stadium, with a capacity of 25,000, serves as the main venue for sports events and national celebrations.

The Facts:
Region: Khomas.
Population: ~ 486,169 (2023 census).

Suburbs of Windhoek: Academia, Auasblick, Avis, Cimbebasia, Dorado Park, Donkerhoek, Elisenheim, Eros, Eros Park, Freedom Land, Groot Aub, Greenwell Matongo, Goreangab, Hakahana, Havanna, Hochland Park, Katutura, Khomasdal, Kleine Kuppe, Klein Windhoek, Lafrenz Industrial Area, Ludwigsdorf, Luxushügel, Maxuilili, Northern Industrial Area, Okuryangava, Olympia, Ombili, Otjomuise, Pionierspark, Prosperita, Rocky Crest, Southern Industrial Area, Suiderhof, Tauben Glen, Wanaheda, Windhoek Central, Windhoek North, Windhoek West.

Main sights: Independence Memorial Museum, Alte Feste, Heroes' Acre, Equestrian Monument, Tintenpalast.