Mon Dec 26 2022 06:29:09 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time) - QikTruck Media
For those wanting to experience classic architecture and grandeur, South Africa is home to some of the oldest and most picturesque castles and mansions in the world. Built by the Dutch, British and Afrikaans, these grandiose structures tell the history of South Africa from a different perspective. From the Castle of Good Hope in Cape Town to the Dutch Cat House in Johannesburg, the magnificence and beauty of the various castles and mansions spread across South Africa have captivated the hearts of all.
The Castle of Good Hope, nestled in the middle of bustling city life of Cape Town, has stood tall since 1666. Built as a star fort, this storied structure is the oldest surviving colonial building in South Africa. Closed during the French and British occupation of South Africa, the castle experienced a significant transformation during the Afrikaans and Dutch rule. During this period, the Castle of Good Hope served as a restaurant,a church and even a nightclub. To this day, the castle remains a popular tourist destination and a popular spot for weddings and special events. Among its many cultural contributions, the castle has become home to a multitude of South African historical artifacts,including the \"Cape of Good Hope\" flag, which was first flown at the castle in April 1657.
Situated in the suburbs of Johannesburg lies one of the oldest Afrikaner/Dutch style houses in South Africa, the Dutch Cat House. Built in the early 1800s, the house is characterized by the Dutch West India Company period of architecture, with charming Cape Dutch gable designs. Despite the house being one of the oldest surviving buildings in Johannesburg, the land it stands on was originally granted to a victor of the infamous Battle of Blood River, Jacob Pretorius in 1844. Today, the Dutch Cat House remains a tourist hotspot, with visitors soaking in the history and beauty of the building.
The Marble Hill Inn, located in the Malaty crest of Pietermaritzburg, stands tall as a historic monument. Built between 1868 and 1872, the inn was a grand building that boasted 40 luxury bedrooms, and later served as an educational centre. It's eclectic mix of Victorian, Dutch and Italian architecture is what makes it a stand-out amongst houses and castles built during the same period. Today, the Marble Hill Inn still stands as one of the many reminders of South African history and beauty for tourists, locals and future generations alike.
From majestic vineyards to towering cliff sides, South Africa is home to some of the most beautiful castles and mansions anywhere in the world. Spanning back centuries, many of these captivating buildings still stand up to this day, reminding us of the colonialism, Afrikaner and Dutch rule that helped shape modern South Africa. At Qiktruck, we understand the importance of preserving history, which is why we are dedicated to providing efficient truck and driver hire services so that these castles and mansions can continue to captivate us.