Cape Town History and Facts

Cape Town History

• First inhabitants were ancestors of the African Khoisan people.
• Dutch traders founded a settlement in 1652.
• Cape Town became a crucial supply station for the sea route to India.
• Dutch and British fought for control between 1795 and 1806.
• Became a British colony in 1806-1810.
• Granted city status in 1840.
• Black district Six (in the city center) was declared a white area in 1965.
• Its population (approximately 60,000) was forcibly removed to an area north of the city.

Cape Town Facts

• One of South Africa's three capitals.
• Second largest city in South Africa (after Johannesburg).
• Covers 300 square kilometers.
• Key industrial center for food, wine, clothing, plastics, and leather goods.
• Also a significant ship repair and tourism hub.
• Known as South Africa's "mother city" due to being the site of the first European settlement.

Cape Town Stadium

• Built for the 2010 World Cup.
• Construction began in 2007 and finished December 14, 2009.
• One of 10 stadiums used in the 2010 World Cup.
• Holds 69,070 people.
• Renamed DHL Stadium after sponsorship in 2021.
• Now home stadium for Western Province Rugby since 2023.

Table Mountain

• Located south of Cape Town, known for its flat top.
• Offers stunning views of Cape Town and the Atlantic Ocean.
• Cableway available for access.
• Hiking trails are also an option to reach the summit.
• Highest point: 1084 meters.
• Approximately 4.2 million tourists visit annually.
• Designated a World Heritage Site due to its unique natural and cultural qualities.
• Features 8,200 plant species and rich wildlife.

Kirstenbosch

• One of the world's largest botanical gardens.
• Located on the eastern side of Table Mountain.
• Part of a network of nine national botanical gardens in South Africa.
• Features over 7,000 plant species, primarily from South Africa (proteas, heather, cycads).
• Approx 3.2-square mile area.

Victoria & Alfred Waterfront

• One of the most popular tourist attractions in South Africa.
• Located in Cape Town's harbour.
• Named after Prince Alfred and Queen Victoria.
• Features over 450+ shops, 13 hotels, 7 museums, 101 entertainment options, 80+ eat places and 22 historical landmarks.
• Popular attractions include the Two Oceans Aquarium, Clock Tower, and the Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa.
• Boat trips to Robben Island are available.

Test your knowledge about Cape Town's rich history, significant facts, and the iconic stadium built for the 2010 World Cup. From its early inhabitants to its status as a vital industrial and tourism hub, this quiz covers key events and information about this remarkable city.