The Company’s Garden is one of South Africa’s oldest gardens and is nestled in Cape Town’s city centre on Queen Victoria Street.
It was designated as a National Monument in 1962 and originates from the 17th century when the Dutch East India Company established itself in the Cape.
The Company’s Garden has been one of Cape Town’s beloved parks, filled with history, a grand view of Table Mountain, and yes, a lot of squirrels.
A Brief History of The Company’s Garden
The Company’s Garden was started in 1652 by the Dutch East India Company to grow fruits and vegetables and to provide fresh produce for ships that passed along their trade routes.
It was started and cultivated by master gardener Hendrik Boom and others, who reportedly prepared the first soil and planted seeds as per instructions from Jan van Riebeeck. Boom also reportedly planted various herbs, which included a medicinal garden.
Various trees and other plants were also established, from Pine and Oak trees to roses and more. Water furrows were also introduced.
Johan Andries Auge was the head gardener in 1747 and was known for planting his indigenous collection, which reportedly included a yellowwood tree. He also reportedly sent various indigenous plants to Europe for further studies.
The Company’s Garden has been cultivated by many hands throughout the centuries and has undergone many changes, too many to list in detail here. Also considered a botanical garden, it offers a plethora of botanical features and historical monuments, keeping it rooted as one of South Africa’s most important gardens and one to definitely put on your list of places to experience and explore in Cape Town.
Visit South Africa’s Oldest Garden
The Company’s Garden is free for the public to enjoy, and several events are held there during the year. It also includes a restaurant. But for a taste of true Cape Town history, you can explore the monuments and historical spaces around the garden.
Some of these include St.George’s Cathedral, the Old and New Houses of Assembly, Houses of Parliament, Iziko South African Museum, the Jewish Museum and Holocaust Centre, Iziko Slave Lodge, and so much more.
Have you visited The Company’s Garden?
Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 11.
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