Parys is a small town located in the Free State province of South Africa. It is situated on the banks of the Vaal River, about 160 kilometers south-west of Johannesburg.
Parys was founded in 1876 when gold was discovered in the area. The town quickly grew as prospectors and miners flocked to the region in search of gold. Parys served as an important center for the gold mining industry in the Free State during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
One of the things that makes Parys unique is its picturesque setting on the Vaal River. The town is surrounded by beautiful rolling hills and is home to a number of historic buildings and monuments. Parys also has a vibrant arts community and is home to many artists and art galleries.
The population of Parys is around 25,000 people, making it a small to medium-sized town.
There are a number of places of interest in Parys. Visitors can explore the historic town center, which is home to a number of well-preserved 19th-century buildings. The Parys Museum offers a glimpse into the town’s rich history, including the gold mining era. Visitors can also take a trip out to the nearby Vredefort Dome, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the largest meteorite impact site in the world.
Parys is also known for its outdoor activities such as river rafting, tubing, kayaking and fly fishing.
Parys is situated nearby towns such as Potchefstroom, Vanderbijlpark and Vereeniging.