On 24 September, Heritage Day, South Africans across the country are inspired to honour their cultures, and the diversity of their beliefs and traditions. And with Cape Town being the oldest city in South Africa, it seems only fitting to use this month to celebrate the heritage of one of our oldest institutions: the military. Here, we give you a glimpse of the official Military Heritage Route, which will be open to explore this Heritage Day.
Stop 1: Castle of Good Hope
The first building along the route also happens to be the oldest surviving building in South Africa. Since 1666, the Castle of Good Hope has been the center of civilian, political and military life in the Mother City and today, it;s used as a place for community discourse and empowerment. with regular meetings and workshops held there. Explore the grounds then grab a bite at De Goewerneur Restaurant or Waterblommetjie, situated inside the castle walls.
OF NOTE
Get there Corner of Darling Street and Buitenkant Street, CBD
Contact +27 21 787 1260, [email protected], castleofgoodhope.co.za
Stop 2: South African Naval Museum
Alongside the military, SA also has a vast naval history and the main naval port in Simon’s Town pays homage to this with the South African Naval Museum. Open to the public daily, head to the museum for stories of sea battles and heroism as well as the chance to venture inside a submarine.
OF NOTE
Get there St Georges Street, Simon’s Town
Contact 021 787 4686
Stop 3: Chavonnes Battery Museum
The Chavonnes Battery Museum displays the archaeological ruins of a Dutch East India Company Fort, buried for 140 years. Playing host to regular international photographic exhibitions, the museum is wheelchair-friendly and offers you the opportunity to be immersed in the 1700s. And just in case you can’t leave the modern world behind, the building is a Wifi zone too.
OF NOTE
Get there Clock Tower Precinct, V&A Waterfront
Contact 021 416 6230, [email protected], wchavonnesbattery.co.za
Photography courtesy Ruan Uys