Iziko Bo-Kaap Museum — Attraction in Cape Town Ward 77

Bo-Kaap in Cape Town is a vibrant and colorful neighborhood that reflects the rich heritage of South Africa. Also known as the Malay Quarter, this area is famed for its brightly painted homes and cobblestoned streets. It's a neighborhood that buzzes with culture and history, and it's definitely worth visiting for anyone traveling to Cape Town.

The area was originally settled by slaves brought over from Southeast Asia. Over time, they intermarried with local South Africans and created a unique culture that can still be felt in the neighborhood today. The brightly painted houses are a recent addition to Bo-Kaap's landscape, and their vivid colors are said to have been chosen to celebrate the end of apartheid.

Walking the narrow, winding streets of Bo-Kaap feels like stepping back in time. The closely-packed homes, some dating back to the 18th century, are a testament to the neighborhood's long history. Despite being located near Cape Town's bustling city center, Bo-Kaap has a distinct village feel, with many residents sitting outside their homes socializing with each other.

Besides its stunning architecture and colorful homes, Bo-Kaap has an array of local businesses, from authentic Malay restaurants to spice shops and small convenience stores. The neighborhood is also renowned for its cooking classes, where visitors can learn to make dishes like bobotie, bredie, and samoosas from experienced cooks.

Finally, Bo-Kaap is home to some of Cape Town's finest mosques. The most famous of these is the Auwal Mosque, which is said to be the first mosque built in South Africa. The mosque has a fascinating history and is well worth a visit.

In conclusion, Bo-Kaap is a must-visit destination for tourists exploring Cape Town. Its unique architecture, culture, and history provide a glimpse into the diverse heritage of...

Yes I wanted to see the pretty colorful houses but I truly needed to place these houses in historical context and better understand the people who called The Bo-Kaap home. Hence a visit to the museum. The museum comprises of one upstairs room with four large informational presentations which was interesting but left much to be desired. For instance one board was entirely devoted to early pivotal mosques in the area and left me wondering whether other faiths were practiced here. We then retreated into the main area which had a fascinating photo array of what Cape Town was like before and during apartheid with some information but once again, I left with more questions than answers. Finally one room is dedicated to a specific Turkish family who has a rich history in the area and the final room are photos of modern folks celebrating special events. This museum has so much potential- Cape Town has such an incredible, fascinating story to tell regarding its non-white heritage. If they could truly delve into the long walk to freedom and perhaps even the unfortunate events that lead to segregation, they could truly provide a cathartic experience for guests who could leave here with tears in their eyes and subsequently walk around this neighborhood in wonder. Its what this community deserves. An emotional response is a powerful effect a museum can offer and here in Cape Town, its not that hard to evoke emotion about the past. This current museum should be free until it can provide a more in-depth experience to visitors who wish to learn more. Im giving this museum 5 stars because hopefully they can get funding to expand. I support museums and the arts and I hope this is a starting point that expands to something...

….When in Cape Town this is an absolute Must visit place! It's so beautiful filled with bright colours making and giving the impression of joy and happiness! The Locals have joined hands with Tourism S.A. and opened their home to locals and as well the many thousands of tourist passing through Cape Town where they can have first hand experience of the life-style of the Malay People! There are some shops in the area selling all that is also related the kinds of food and delicatessens enjoyed by the locals! Some homes have been turned into home run restaurants offering the best Malay spic-ii dishes! Some homes are even open to the public just to brows through! There are some museums which displays much relating to the history of this area and the important's played in the history of Cape Town! There are companies that offer guided tours or just be brave and stroll through the streets of the Bo-Kaap! It's Awesome! Awesome! It is said that picture speaks a thousand word to witness then it a must the incredible Iziko Bo-Kaap Museum that so beautiful-lii displays black & white photos that jump out at you of the history of the peoples that occupied this area since the early 1950's and even before. So impressive and informative-lii educational…….We recommend it high-lii…..NB! They have a Covid-19 Safety Policy in Place, Hand Sanitising, No Mask No Entree, Temperature is taken and Social Distancing is observed and the floor is clear-lii marked. And only a few visitors are allowed at a time and when they leave the place is Sanitised. South African pensioners qualify for...