Historical landmarks in Cape Town

Cape Town is one of the most popular cities in the world, celebrated for its abundance of natural beauty, thriving cultural scene and exceptional food and wine offerings. Over the years, Cape Town has gained numerous accolades, including being named The Best Place in the World to Visit by The New York Times in 2014. The Daily Telegraph honoured it as The Best City in the World in both 2016 and 2023, while the 2023 World Travel Awards recognised it as Africa’s Best Tourist Destination. Most recently, Time Out crowned Cape Town as the Best City in the World, further cementing its status as a top global destination. Today, Cape Town is a thriving modern city, but it’s essential to recognise its long and significant history. The city is home to many historical landmarks which stand as powerful reminders of its past. In this guide, we explore some of the most significant sites that every visitor should experience to truly understand Cape Town’s remarkable story.

Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Robben Island has a layered history, having served as a military base, a hospital, and most famously, a notorious prison island that once held political prisoners, including Nelson Mandela. Nelson Mandela was imprisoned on Robben Island for 18 years, during which he became recognised as a leader amongst his fellow prisoners as he demonstrated a strong sense of resilience and dignified defiance. The island is now maintained and managed by the Robben Island Museum, which implements a wide range of conservation, educational, tourist development, research, archiving and general heritage programmes. Visitors can pre-book a guided tour of Robben Island for a profound glimpse into its history. Many of these tours are led by former inmates who share personal accounts of the struggles faced and the resilience of those who fought against apartheid. 

Built between 1666 and 1679, The Castle of Good Hope is considered to be one of the oldest European buildings in South Africa. Locally known as "the Castle," this historic 17th-century bastion fort once served as the heart of Cape Town’s civilian, political, and military affairs, standing as a testament to the city’s colonial past. Today, tourists can either explore the Castle of Good Hope alone or you can opt for a guided tour to fully understand the fascinating historical details of the site. The Key Ceremony is a highlight for many visitors which involves reenacting the ceremonial unlocking of the Castle’s Van der Stel entrance, followed by the firing of a signal cannon. This tradition offers a captivating glimpse into the military customs that have played a significant role in shaping South Africa’s history. The Castle also features regular cannon firings and engaging workshops, providing visitors with a deeper understanding of its rich heritage.

Table Mountain is a geological wonder, with its formation dating back over 540 million years, making it one of the oldest mountains in the world. Its striking flat-topped silhouette and ancient rock formations tell a story of immense natural history and resilience. With over 300 routes leading to its summit, Table Mountain is a true paradise for hikers, offering trails for all levels of adventurers. For those who prefer a more relaxed ascent, a cable car provides a scenic ride to the top, allowing visitors to soak in the breathtaking views without breaking a sweat. 

Also nestled within South Africa’s renowned Table Mountain National Park is Cape Point, a dramatic coastal destination where rugged cliffs soar over 200 meters above the ocean. On a clear day, you might even catch a distant glimpse of Antarctica. For a thrilling ascent, hop on the iconic Flying Dutchman funicular, which carries visitors up to breathtaking viewpoints. A true tourist hotspot, Cape Point is an unmissable destination that showcases the raw beauty of the Cape Peninsula.

Cape Town’s City Hall is a striking sandstone masterpiece completed in 1905. It has been reported that this beautiful building was made using materials imported from Bath, UK. The grand Renaissance-style building is home to an impressive set of 39 bells, making it the largest carillon in Southern Africa. Its historic significance is cemented by the momentous occasion on February 11, 1990, when Nelson Mandela stood on its balcony to deliver his first public address after 27 years of imprisonment, speaking to a crowd of approximately 100,000 people. Today, City Hall remains a cultural landmark, hosting a variety of social and artistic events that continue to shape the city’s vibrant spirit.

Bo-Kaap is one of Cape Town’s most vibrant and culturally rich neighbourhoods, renowned for its brightly coloured houses and deep-rooted history. Formerly known as the Malay Quarter, this area is a testament to the Cape’s multicultural heritage. At its heart lies the Iziko Bo-Kaap Museum, one of the oldest homes in the district, dating back to the mid-18th century. As a dedicated social history museum, it offers visitors a glimpse into the local community's traditions, struggles, and triumphs, preserving the stories of those who have shaped Bo-Kaap into the iconic neighbourhood it is today.

District Six was once a thriving, multicultural community in Cape Town before the apartheid government forcibly removed over 60,000 residents in the 1960s, demolishing their homes in a devastating act of social injustice. Heartbreakingly, families were torn apart, and an entire neighbourhood was reduced to rubble. In response, the District Six Museum Foundation was formed in a bid to preserve the memory of this community. Today, the District Six Museum is a powerful tribute, showcasing photographs, documents, and artefacts that tell the poignant story of loss, resilience, and the enduring fight for justice.