Company's Garden | Cape Town

Company’s Garden is one of Cape Town’s most historic and serene spaces, offering a peaceful escape in the heart of the city. This public park has played a key role in the development of the city and remains an important part of Cape Town's cultural and historical fabric.

History

Company’s Garden was originally established in 1652 by Jan van Riebeeck, the first Dutch Governor of the Cape Colony. It was created to supply fresh food to the Dutch ships traveling to the East Indies, serving as the first cultivated land in what would later become Cape Town. The garden was initially planted with crops such as vegetables, fruit trees, and herbs to ensure that the colony could become self-sustaining, especially for sailors and settlers.

Early Colonial Period: The garden’s name, Company’s Garden, stems from the Dutch East India Company (VOC), which governed the Cape Colony and established the garden as a means of providing provisions for ships. Over time, the garden grew and became more formalized, with the addition of ornamental trees, shrubs, and flowers from around the world.

Expansion and Development: During the British colonial era, the garden expanded further and became more structured. The British added features such as paths, fountains, and statues, and the garden was eventually transformed into a public space for relaxation, as well as a symbol of British governance in the area.

Modern Times: Today, Company’s Garden is one of the oldest public spaces in South Africa, and it serves as a central gathering place for both locals and tourists. Over the years, it has been transformed into a peaceful urban oasis, with lush greenery, public art, and historical landmarks scattered throughout.

Key Features

1. Green Spaces and Gardens

Company’s Garden is a beautifully landscaped park that covers approximately 8.5 hectares of land. It features a wide variety of trees, flowers, and plants from around the world, showcasing Cape Town’s botanical heritage and the global influences that shaped its history.

Historic Trees: The garden contains several historic trees, including ancient oak and camphor trees planted during the colonial period. These trees are considered landmarks and add to the charm and beauty of the park.

Rose Garden: One of the most popular areas of the garden is the rose garden, which is filled with a variety of vibrant and fragrant roses. This section of the garden is especially popular during the blooming season, attracting both tourists and locals alike.

2. The Company's Garden Museum

Located within the garden, the Company's Garden Museum is a small but informative museum that showcases the history of the garden and its role in the development of Cape Town. The museum provides insights into the early days of the colony, the garden's origins, and the people who have lived and worked in the area throughout history.

3. Iziko South African Museum

Adjacent to Company’s Garden is the Iziko South African Museum, a world-class museum dedicated to South Africa's natural history, including geology, paleontology, and ethnography. The museum is one of Cape Town’s oldest and most important institutions, and it’s located right next to the garden, making it easy to visit both in one trip.

4. The National Gallery

Also bordering the garden is the South African National Gallery, which houses an impressive collection of South African and international art. The gallery is part of the Iziko Museums of South Africa and hosts a variety of exhibitions, showcasing the diverse artistic heritage of the country.

5. The Slave Tree

One of the most poignant landmarks in the garden is the Slave Tree, a large oak tree under which enslaved people were once reportedly sold and traded during the colonial era. This tree stands as a symbol of the painful legacy of slavery and the colonial past of South Africa.

6. Fountains and Statues

The park features a number of fountains and statues, some of which date back to the 19th century. Notable statues include a statue of Queen Victoria and a fountain dedicated to Jan van Riebeeck, marking his role in establishing the colony.

The Queen Victoria Fountain is one of the oldest in the garden and serves as an important reminder of the British colonial period in Cape Town’s history.

7. The Clock Tower

A Victorian-style clock tower is located within the garden, adding to the aesthetic charm of the park. It was originally built in the 19th century and continues to be a well-known landmark.

Visitor Experience

Relaxation and Recreation: Company’s Garden is a popular spot for both relaxation and recreation. Visitors can enjoy leisurely strolls under the shade of the trees, have picnics on the grass, or simply sit by the fountain and enjoy the tranquility of the park.

Cultural and Educational Activities: The garden hosts various educational programs, community events, and cultural performances throughout the year. The surrounding museums and cultural institutions offer a wealth of learning opportunities, and the garden itself is often used for outdoor exhibitions and public events.

Kids’ Play Area: The garden is also family-friendly, with a designated play area for children, making it a great spot for families to visit and enjoy a day outdoors.

Shops and Cafes

The area around Company’s Garden features several cafes and restaurants, where visitors can enjoy coffee or lunch while overlooking the garden. The nearby Greenmarket Square and Long Street offer additional shopping and dining opportunities.

Visitor Information

Opening Hours: The garden is open to the public every day, typically from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM. However, it is recommended to visit during daylight hours for safety reasons, as the park is less populated in the evenings.

Admission: Entry to Company’s Garden is free, although some of the surrounding attractions, such as the South African Museum and the National Gallery, require an entrance fee.

Location: Company’s Garden is centrally located in Cape Town, at the foot of Table Mountain, making it easily accessible from popular tourist spots such as Long Street and the V&A Waterfront.

Conclusion

Company’s Garden is a historic, peaceful, and picturesque space that offers a unique opportunity to experience the cultural and natural heritage of Cape Town. Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or simply looking for a relaxing escape in the heart of the city, Company’s Garden provides a welcoming environment for all. Its lush landscapes, historic significance, and proximity to museums and cultural sites make it a must-visit for anyone exploring Cape Town.