National Library of South Africa

Cape Town


Facing the north end of the Public Garden, this neoclassical building is based on the Fitzwilliam Museum in Cambridge, UK, and holds a copy of nearly every document published in South Africa. Exhibitions are held here; enter to admire the central rotunda.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Cape Town attractions

1. St George’s Cathedral

0.05 MILES

Known as the People’s Cathedral, this was one of the few places of worship that was open to people of all races during apartheid. Classical concerts are…

2. Arch for Arch

0.08 MILES

Unveiled in 2017 for Archibishop Desmond Tutu's 86th birthday, this wooden arch stands next to the cathedral where the Nobel Prize winner presided as a…

3. Public Garden

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Planted with a fine collection of botanical specimens, including frangipanis, African flame trees, aloes and roses, the Public Garden is the centrepiece…

4. Jan Smuts Statue

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One of two statues of Jan Smuts located in the city centre, this is the more traditional interpretation of the former general and prime minister (1870…

5. Company’s Garden

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These shady green gardens, which started as the vegetable patch for the Dutch East India Company, are a lovely place to relax. They are planted with a…

6. Iziko Slave Lodge

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Dating back to 1660, the Slave Lodge is one of the oldest buildings in South Africa. Once home to as many as 1000 slaves, the lodge has a fascinating…

7. Waalburg Building

0.1 MILES

The Waalburg Building has a facade decorated with bronze and Table Mountain–stone panels depicting scenes of South African life. Opposite is the Western…

8. Houses of Parliament

0.11 MILES

A tour around parliament is fascinating, especially if you’re interested in the country’s modern history. Opened in 1885, the hallowed halls have seen…