A Guide To The Iziko Museums In Cape Town
Exploring the museums is a fun and inexpensive way to spend a day, while learning about South Africa’s diverse cultural heritage. Iziko, meaning ‘hearth’ in isiXhosa, is an amalgamation of 11 museums, a planetarium, two libraries and a social history center situated on the ‘museum mile’, a route that begins in the Company’s Garden. Read our guide to Cape Town’s premier museum organisation.
Iziko South African Museum and Planetarium
Museum
Exhibits include archaeological collections from the Khoi-San and the fossils of early human ancestors; an impressive marine biology collection; rocks and minerals; dinosaur dioramas and a life-size display of African dinosaur fossils — a hit with families. The Planetarium is located inside the museum and provides a great introduction to the Milky Way, hosting shows for children and adults. The Planetarium is currently undergoing a technological upgrade and will be closed until further notice.
Iziko South African National Gallery
Iziko Slave Lodge
Building, Museum
Iziko Bo-Kaap Museum
Museum
Iziko Rust en Vreugd Museum
Museum
Iziko Koopmans-de Wet House
Museum
Iziko Bertram House
Michaelis Collection at the Old Town House
Building, Museum
Iziko Maritime Centre
Iziko Groot Constantia Manor House
We recommend that you reserve a full day for visiting the Groot Constantia Wine Estate, as there are a variety of things to see and do. For starters, the charming Manor House is a must-visit, situated in the center of the picturesque estate. The 300-year-old homestead features an excellent collection of furniture, paintings, textiles, ceramics and copperware, providing insight into the life of a successful 18th to late 19th century Cape farmer. Be sure to stop by the Orientation Center which gives an overview of Groot Constantia from the past to the present, including slavery on the estate. After exploring, relax and enjoy the estate’s award-winning wines and delicious cuisine at either Simon’s Restaurant or the Jonkershuis.
Groot Constantia Rd, Constantia, Cape Town, +27 21 794 5128
William Fehr Collection at the Castle of Good Hope
Hiking Trail, Building, Museum, Historical Landmark
The oldest colonial building in South Africa, the Castle of Good Hope is a fortress built by Dutch colonialists between 1666 and 1679. The pentagonal fort served as the seat of military and government operations for over two centuries, and is a gateway into early life at the Cape. The William Fehr Collection is situated in the Kat — a building that once housed the Cape governor’s residence in the center of the Castle grounds. The exquisite collection consists of paintings, ceramics, and furniture offering insight into the people and landscapes of early colonial South Africa.