Happy TravellerWelcome to Mohales Hoek, the capital city of Mohales Hoek District in Lesotho. With a population of approximately 40,040 in 2016, this charming city is a hidden gem waiting to be explored. Let’s dive into the history, attractions, and local cuisine that make Mohales Hoek a must-visit destination.
== History ==
Mohales Hoek was first inhabited by the San who were found there by the Baphuthi around 1795. The Baphuthi settled in Kubake, the small mountain fortress shaped like a castle, near the present Likuena High School while some settled at Thaba-Tsoeu. Chief Moorosi of the Baphuthi is said to have been there during the journey to this new home. They later settled below the foothills of Thaba-Linoha, north of the present Bethesda mission and the area was later called Maphutseng, which simply means the plural of a certain variety of a pumpkin. In singular it is Lephutse. This was found in plenty on the fertile bank of Maphutseng River. Some Baphuthi inhabited the area bordering Senqu River, Morifi and across the river into what is now Quthing. After 1824, the area was inhabited by Mohale, the younger brother of Moshoeshoe around the 1830s. On expansion of Moshoeshoes kingdom into southern Lesotho, King Moshoeshoe sent his brother Mohale to administer the area where the Baphuthi and Basotho enjoyed a rather fragile friendship. After living for a while at Lifateng, Mohale established a substantial village at the place now known as Old Hoek (the present day Ha Tsepo village) a few kilometres north of the present town. This village was destroyed in 1867 during the Seqiti War and was subsequently abandoned. In the year after the proclamation that made Lesotho British territory, an assistant commissioner was appointed to administer what was then called Cornet Spruit District – after the Makhaleng River. This would make Mohales Hoek the second oldest of all the district headquarters towns in Lesotho, except that the town was completely destroyed during the Gun War of 1880. Southwest to the town near the St Patricks Cathedral are the Motlejoeng caves which were used by the celebrated cannibal, Motlejoa during the Lifaqane. The town moved from Old Hoek to the present location because of a certain businessman of an English descent PB Jandrell.
== Attractions ==
Mohales Hoek has a variety of attractions that cater to all types of travelers. One of the most popular attractions is the St. Camillus Centre, a Catholic mission that provides healthcare and education to the local community. Visitors can tour the facilities and learn about the important work being done here. Another must-visit attraction is the Motlejoeng Caves, located southwest of the town near St. Patrick’s Cathedral. These caves were used by the celebrated cannibal, Motlejoa, during the Lifaqane. Visitors can explore the caves and learn about the history of the area.
== Local Cuisine ==
No trip to Mohales Hoek is complete without trying the local cuisine. One of the most popular dishes is pap, a type of porridge made from maize meal. It is often served with meat and vegetables and is a staple in Lesotho. Another must-try dish is moroho, a type of spinach that is cooked with onions and tomatoes. It is often served with pap and meat and is a delicious and healthy option.
Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or cuisine, Mohales Hoek has something for everyone. Come and explore this hidden gem and discover all that it has to offer.
