If you’re a local Muslim in Cape Town, you’ve probably heard of a neighborhood, referred to as the Bo-Kaap, which is a multicultural area, known to the residents of the city, as well as tourists abroad, as the Malay Quarter.
The reason for its popularity abroad is due to a similar establishment in Malaysian, Sri Lankan, Indian and African culture. These establishments were created by descendants of slaves that were brought to these countries by the Dutch imperialists during the 16th & 17th century.
Known for its rich line of history, the area still till this day, attracts locals and tourists as one of the most vibrant places in Cape Town with many different things to see and activities to do.
What to Do in the Bo-Kaap
- The Cultural Walking Tour
Everybody knows that when you’re traveling, you may find that your trip could have a way of becoming expensive. However, you can experience a tour of the Bo-Kaap for free with a tour guide.
All locals and visitors can discover the Bo-Kaap and its history for free, with trips departing three times per day, starting at the Green Market Square, located in Short Market Street.
In this tour, you’ll receive an overview of the district’s landmarks, places where you can find mosques, historical restaurants and plenty of shopping outlets. It is an entertaining, culturally-rich tour not to be missed.
- Auwul Mosque
As one of the biggest attractions for the Muslim population in the city, the Bo-Kaap districts wouldn’t have been complete without several mosques, especially the Auwul Mosque, which was first built by the Indonesian prince in 1794.
The Auwul mosque is very important to Muslims in the country, as it was the first to be built in South Africa. Definitely a sight that must be seen.
- The Historical Museum
Established in 1976 and boasting with history from the beginning of the 19th century, the Bo-Kaap museum will depict a lifestyle that had reigned over the district throughout the 19th century. The museum is furnished and although small, it is culturally enriched with a socio-political feel to it and has a way of taking visitors to another time. With an entry fee of only $2, visiting the museum is a great way to gain some insight on what started it all for Muslims in Cape Town.
- The Noon Day Gun
Occupied in the late 1700s, more specifically 1795, the Noon Day Gun’s name came from a time when the Dutch’s guns were replaced by the English cannon.
As a part of a daily routine, the cannon has been fired every day since 1806 and has become a tradition in Cape Town. Visiting this remarkable place, you can witness the firing of the cannon at noon, all while learning about the rich history of the city.
Halal Tourism South Africa provides Islamic tours both locally and internationally.
