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Durban (Zulu: eThekwini) is the second most populous city in South Africa, forming part of the eThekwini metropolitan municipality. It is the largest city in KwaZulu-Natal. Durban is famous as the busiest port in South Africa and a centre of tourism due to the city's warm climate and beaches. Durban is one of the most popular South African destinations for international tourists.

Durban started as a small British settlement, but grew around its sugar cane plantations. The large number of Indians were brought to work on the plantations and as a result it has the largest Indian population outside of India, giving the city a unique character. The city developed its tourism facilities, particularly during the 1970s which saw a skyscraper construction boom along the beach front. During the 1980s and early 1990s, the region saw violent fighting between the Inkatha Freedom Party and the African National Congress, the two leading anti-apartheid parties. Today, Durban remains a major tourism centre.

According to the 2001 Census, the city has a population of 3.2 million. Durban's land area of 2,292 km² is comparatively larger than other South African cities, resulting in a comparatively lower population density of 1,460/km². Durban is twinned with Rio de Janeiro, Brazil; Eilat, Israel; and Leeds, United Kingdom.

More info: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Durban