(2010 FIFA world Cup Organising Committee)

Frenetic, electrifying Johannesburg has had a reputation for striving, greed and violence ever since its first plot auction in December 1886.

Despite its status as the largest and wealthiest city in the country, it has never been the seat of government or national political power, allowing it to concentrate fully on what it has always done best: make money and get ahead.

Back in October 1886, when gold was discovered, what is now Johannesburg was an expanse of sleepy veld. Now it is the economic engine of Africa: a sprawling, infuriating, invigorating home to eight million people.

Source: Roughguides