Cape Town City History and Attractions
Cape Town has a long and colourful history which, despite popular opinion, began long before Jan van Riebeeck docked the Dromedaris on the shores of Table Bay. However, it was only once the 23-year-old had established the Cape’s first fort, and planted its first vegetable garden, that Cape Town came to be recognised as vital port, and a flourishing city in its own right.
The Castle of Good Hope and the Company Gardens
The fort build by Jan van Riebeeck was later replaced by the Castle of Good Hope, Cape Town’s first building. The Castle still stands in its original position, and is a major attraction in the city centre. The vegetable patch grew into a flourishing garden, which today is known as the Company Gardens, and is enjoyed by 70,000 visitors each year, who visit its lawns, rose gardens, fish ponds and aviaries in the warm summer months.
The Khoisan were the original inhabitants of the Cape, and when you visit the Iziko South African Museum, situated at the top of the Company Gardens, you can learn about these early Cape Town inhabitants in greater detail. You can also access the South African National Gallery and the Jewish Museum from the Company Gardens.
Adderley Street: Cape Town’s famous main road
Adderley Street, which leads to the Gardens, is Cape Town’s most famous main road, steeped in history and multicultural influences. It’s here, on this renowned arteriole, that the Taj Cape Town is situated. Located in some of Adderley Street’s oldest buildings, the luxury hotel provides a superb springboard to Cape Town’s top attractions.
Taj Cape Town: An historic journey into modern opulence
A stay at the Taj Cape Town offers guests unique insights into the history of the Cape. Embracing the architecture and traditions of yesteryear, the Taj offers old-world opulence and modern-day luxury. Experience this opulence for yourself. Book your Cape Town accommodation at the sophisticated Taj Cape Town, and experience local history and hospitality in luxurious surrounds.
