Groote Kerk Kaapstad — Attraction in Cape Town Ward 115

The Groote Kerk on Church Square Cape Town is the oldest Dutch Reformed Church in South Africa and dates back to the 1700's. It was rebuilt in the mid 1800's due to disintegration as a result of the water table on which it is built. The Church has the most magnificent wood carved Pulpit designed by the famous architect Anton Anreith and has at its base 2 sculptured Cape lions. Cape lions are now extinct. The pulpit was preserved during the renovations in the 1800's by concealing it in a box whilst the church was being rebuilt. It still stands on its original position since the church first opened its doors. It was the tradition of the Dutch to bury there governors in the church and to lay their bodies in crypts under the wood floor. A total of 8 governors were buried in the Church including Simon Van Der Stell whose bones lie buried under the wood...

The Groote Kerk is just across the road from the Slave Lodge and just below the Company Gardens. It was built in 1841 in the neoclassical style and designed by the architect Herman Schuette. This imposing religious edifice cannot be missed by passing residents or visitors using Adderley Street. Inside one is struck by the large hollow space ready to accommodate a big congregation. Two wooden galleries seat people at opposite sides of the building while a massive organ is across from the pulpit. It’s definitely worth visiting but doesn’t have the same feel as many cathedrals do. The design is more like a hall...

The Groote Kerk is the oldest church in South Africa.

It was completed in 1704 and expanded twice over the years.

Inside, the building impresses with its simplicity and impressive wooden look.

During the times of the VOC (East India Company), fine tropical wood, which probably came from India, was used here.

The wooden pulpit with the two lions and the wonderful ceiling rosette are particularly noteworthy. The Groote Kerk also houses the largest organ in...