The Castle of Goodhope, known to locals as just the Castle, is one of the oldest buildings in South Africa. It was established to protect Cape Town from sea attacks. At first, it was supervised by Jan Van Riebeek in 1652. The castle was built using slave labour and was ironically built to protect against the local populace, which the colonisers encountered. Wild animals were also a concern at the time. The canons of the castle were never fired. And it actually stood in the centre, where the Grand Parade is today.

 

The castle is built in a five-star fortress design; these walls are named Buren, Leerdam, Oranje, Nassau, and Catzenellenbogen, which are the titles of the Prince of Orange. The Dutch Prince. As you might know, the Dutch colonised the Cape, with Jan van Riebeek at the forefront of colonization. The balcony was named the kat,” and from it, a number of official proclamations were made.

 

The castle is still an active security site for the military. Today, you can also see various art exhibitions and articles from the time and learn more about slavery in Cape Town, along with the battles that took place in the city, in certain rooms of the castle. There are also sculptures of African leaders who sought to fight against colonization. And its legacy is shrouded by the injustices committed during its construction. That being said, the castle is now an important educational site. It also serves as an art and entertainment venue, with many installations and festivals being held at the castle throughout the year.

 

For more information see: Castle of Goodhope

For tickets see: Tickets

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