The Castle of Good Hope

The Castle of Good Hope is South Africa’s oldest building. Photo courtesy Konrad Glogowski

The Castle of Good Hope – the oldest building in South Africa – was once a fort, but today functions as a showcase of the Cape's early days.

Built by Jan van Riebeeck and the Dutch East India Company, the building, which is an example of a “star fort”, was completed in 1679. The building’s 18th-century décor has been restored and it now functions as a popular museum.

Its position, although unremarkable today, indicates the original position of the shoreline, which, thanks to land reclamation, has been extensively changed. It's strange to think that the original entrance to the fort had to be moved due to the waves that sometimes pounded against its doors!

The William Fehr Collection, comprising paintings and decorative arts, is housed partly in the Castle of Good Hope museum, and partly in Rust en Vreugd – an historical house and museum in the city centre, +27 (0)21 481 3903.

The pieces of this collection, including furniture, oil paintings and antique china, were collected by businessman William Fehr, then sold or donated to the South African government during the first half of the 20th Century. This collection is considered to be one of the best showcases of the lifestyle and tastes of early settlers in the Cape colony.

The castle is conveniently located in the city centre, close to bus and rail stations. Entrance is free, but donations are welcome. Open Monday to Friday from 10h00 to 17h00. Closed Saturdays, Sundays, Christmas Day and Worker's Day.