Bo-Kaap in Cape Town - South Africa   This part of town is also called “The Malay Quarter” and is situated on the slopes of Signal Hill, west of the City Bowl. In 1780 Asian slaves and prisoners, the so called Cape Muslims, settled in this part of Cape town.   The oriental flair of this area can still be sensed today, as many Muslims still reside there. Nowadays about 60 000 Cape Malay live in Cape Town. When strolling through the Bo-Kaap you will be able to admire many houses of different colours and enjoy a delicious meal in one of the many Malayan restaurants.   Who would like to learn more about this part of town can visit the “Bokaap Museum” with its historical exhibits about the Muslim civilisation. Also to be found in Bokaap is the Alwal-Mosque from the year 1794 – the oldest mosque in South Africa.   Each year on the 2nd of January the Bo Kaap celebrates a big street party, the "Coon Carnival" in the centre of town. It was originally introduced by the Muslim slaves who celebrated their only day off work in the whole year. Nowadays men, woman and children march from the Grand Parade to the Green Point stadium, singing and dancing. They are clad in colourful, shiny suits, white hats and carry a sun umbrella.   Please click on Pictures to enlarge