Maseru

Maseru is the capital and largest city of Lesotho. It is situated on the Maloti-Drakensberg Mountains, on the bank of the Caledon River, which forms part of the border with South Africa. The city is the administrative, economic, and cultural center of the nation. Its population is estimated to be around 250,000 people.

The city's name, Maseru, means "red sandstone" in Sesotho, referring to the predominant rock found in the area. Maseru was founded in 1869 by Major General Sir Garnet Wolseley as the capital of Basutoland, a British protectorate. It was established on the site of a battlefield during the Free State–Basotho Wars. The city remained the capital when Lesotho gained independence in 1966.

Key landmarks in Maseru include the Royal Palace, the Parliament building, and the State House. The city also houses the National Museum and the Lesotho Sun hotel and casino. Maseru is the main hub for transportation in Lesotho, with the Moshoeshoe International Airport located just outside the city. The economy of Maseru is largely based on government administration, services, and a small manufacturing sector. The city experiences a temperate climate with warm summers and cool winters.