Cape Town - Castle of Good Hope

The castle was built by the Dutch to defend themselves against the British during the war. Construction started in 1666 and was completed in 1679.

It's pentagonal plan, with a diamond-shape bastion at each corner, is typical of the Old Netherlands defense system adopted in the early 17th Century.  The design was intended to allow covering fire to be provided for every portion of the castle.  As added protection, the whole fortification was surrounded by a moat, with the sea nearly washing up against its walls.

The five bastions were named after the five princes of “Oranje”, namely Leerdam, Oranje, Nassau, Buren and Katzenellenbogen.  Each bastion contained living quarters or storerooms.  Dungeons were built below sea level.

No attack has ever been launched against the Castle.

After the military exhibitions and the archeological significance, “De Kat” is the main attraction. “De Kat” is a 12m high balcony from which speeches were held addressing the residents of Cape Town. Also at the castle is the famous William Fehr collection as well as a restaurant and café.

Today the Castle is the headquarters of the Western Cape Military Command.  It also houses a military and a maritime museum.