It has been drenched in controversy in recent months, been vandalised during the #RhodeMustFall protest and is the subject of much debate, but one thing is absolutely certain – the view from Rhodes Memorial is absolutely breathtaking.

Erected in 1912, ‘Rhodes Mem’ stands proudly on the slopes of Devils Peak, offering incredible vistas of the city to those who visit it. For decades, the memorial has been a popular site for tourists and locals alike.

Seeing it for the first time is absolutely magical – something that does not diminish over time. The high columns tower around you, leaving you in awe, the stairs and lion statues create great symmetry and nothing prepares you for the stunning views of the city, both oceans, and the Hottentots Holland mountains.

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You can’t help but bask in the glory of the city as it stretches before you. Every inch of the place is a photographer’s (read: serial Instagrammer’s) dream. In fact, it is so picturesque, many people opt to have their wedding and graduation photographs taken there. It is a great place to spend a few hours, appreciating both nature and man’s wonder.

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For the more active people out there, there are great hiking routes from the memorial that are sure to get your heart pumping. But if you just want to just laze about and take it all in, there is a nice little lawn on the side of the memorial, where you can have a picnic and relax. There is also a quaint little restaurant and tea garden, situated just behind the memorial, where you can enjoy a great meal while overlooking the city.

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As for the man the memorial was built for, Cecil John Rhodes; he was admired by few and disliked by many. Last year, the bust that sits at the centre of the memorial was vandalised, with its nose being removed. Regardless of how you feel about Rhodes himself, the memorial has in some ways transcended the man and become a place to enjoy our beautiful city.

OF NOTE
When Summer at 7:30 am to 7 pm and Winter at 8 am to 6 pm
Where Newlands, above The University of Cape Town
Cost Free entrance
Contact [email protected]

Photography courtesy Michael Mottram and Rhodes Memorial Facebook 

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