Morija is the perfect destination to get a taste of Basotho heritage and unique way of life, and discover Basotho cultural assets in a friendly and relaxed manner. Morija is known for its historical significance. Founded in 1833 as the first French Protestant mission and named after the biblical Mt Moriah, Morija is regarded as the cultural centre of Lesotho. It was given the name Selibeng Sa Thuto – which translates as “The Well-spring of Learning” – and certainly constitutes an inspiring source for anyone eager to discover Basotho heritage, culture and history.
Morija is a home to Lesotho’s pioneer museum, Morija Museum and Archives, which has an impressive collection covering Lesotho’s cultural and natural heritage, past and present.
Morija Museum & Archives hosts the oldest surviving museum and archives in the Kingdom of Lesotho. As an institution with both extensive archival and museum collections and its own ongoing research projects and publishing program, it attracts scholars from far and wide.
For those who love ancient and modern history, contemporary issues and trends, dinosaurs, or living culture, Morija Museum is an Oasis of learning. Located in Morija, a historic town in Lesotho, the Museum works closely with the community to preserve the area's heritage. Known as the Wellspring of Learning, Morija is also regarded as Lesotho’s own town of the arts. Home to the nationally- acclaimed Morija Arts & Cultural Festival (1999-2013), this historic town is a melting pot of cultural, creative, and artistic expression. As home to a number of ongoing cultural projects, as well as a few notable artists, historians, and researchers, Morija continues to attract broad interest. At the centre of this town are the Morija Museum & Archives and its sister institutions, Morija Arts Centre and The Hub @ Morija which form the core of the Cultural Precinct. Morija Arts Centre (MAC) is an arts collective that hosts arts and crafts exhibitions, workshops, and music events. The MAC also takes care of the Maeder House Gallery housed in the oldest standing building in the country. The Hub is a digital creativity lab whose programs are designed to up-skill youth in IT, animation, and film-making.
