This dense little constellation has been used for centuries to guide sailors during night time. By following the cross you can approximate the Southern Hemishpere's pole.
The two main objects of interest in this constellation are the Jewel Box, which is an open cluster of maybe 150 stars. And the Coal Sack, which is an amazing dark Nebula. The reason why you can see it is because it lies over a section of the Milky Way.