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Known as Kaapstad in Afrikaans, Cape Town is South Africa’s legislative
capital, Pretoria being the executive capital and Bloemfontein the judicial
capital, and oldest city.
The city lies at the foot of Table Mt. (c.3,570 ft/1,090 m) and on the shore
of Table Bay.
An efficient port, Cape Town exports mainly gold, diamonds, and fruits and,
with one of the world's largest dry-docks, ship repairing is an important industry.
Cape Town was founded in 1652 by Governor Jan van Riebeeck as a supply station
on the Dutch East India Company's sea route to the East. The location was chosen
for its sheltered bay which formed a natural harbour and protected ships from
strong wind. When the Union of South Africa was formed in 1910, Cape Town became
its legislative capital and Pretoria its administrative capital.
Nelson Mandela was imprisoned on an island very near the city, Robben Island,
until his transfer to another prison.
Today, Cape Town is a picturesque city and a very popular tourist destination.
It has a relaxed atmosphere and offers visitors a wide range of activities such
as water sports, including diving, surfing and sailing, angling, wine-tasting,
shopping, scenic drives, mountaineering, hiking, bird and whale-watching and
much more.
Your contribution can be useful for other tourists
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More Travel Guides in South Africa:
Robben Island (About 10.5 mi) - Stellenbosch (About 22.4 mi)
More information South Africa:
All cities in South Africa - South Africa Photos - South Africa Map
| Robben Island - 10.5 mi | |
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Located at a distance of 12 km from the coast of Cape Town, Africa, Robben Island lies in the Table Bay. The island is flat due to an ancient erosion event, as a result of which... |
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| Stellenbosch - 22.4 mi | |
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Nestled along the banks of the Eerste Rivier the city of Stellenbosch is located in the Western Cape Province, at a distance of 50 kilometers from the Cape Town in South Africa.... |
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