Three times the size of Switzerland, the "Vrystaat" (Free State) is one of the historic bastions of the Boers. Until it became part of the British-ruled colony in 1900, it was governed almost as a sovereign state with its own constitution. Its capital, Bloemfontein, has retained vestiges of this period through its proud public buildings and museums retracing the history of the region. As you explore the Free State province, head as far as Tandjesberg to discover one of the jewels of South African rock art.