The Winding Beauty of Roeland Street.

Attractions and landmarks alike, Roeland Street is the gateway to Cape Town’s core.

By Mia Simpson

Roeland Street situated in the East District of Cape Town has become the middle ground for many tourist attractions and famous landmarks, such as the District Six museum, the company gardens and the Parliament building.

The Parliament building, prefaced with the statue of Lovis Botha, stands as the mark of authority. The head to the snake, situated at the top of Roeland Street watching over the hustle and bustle. This is the same place where many citizens have taken to the streets to protest.

Parliament has become the place to go when you need your demands met, or your voice heard. In the past few weeks there have been protests carried out by the Democratic Alliance (DA), and this is not an uncommon occurrence.

Over the years many have gathered outside the building, chanting their demands, and calling to the higher powers to carry them out accordingly.

Situated at cross-roads, it becomes extremely difficult to avoid these protests or movements, with Roeland Street acting as a sort of gateway to other major landmarks and attractions.

Taking a left off Roeland Street will lead you past the Iziko Slave Lodge and to the famous Company Gardens.

The Slave Lodge serves as a very clear reminder of what slaves, who were brought to Cape Town decades ago, had to endure. This landmark, while holding sad history, allows citizens to understand the darker history of our past.

The Gardens are a beautiful distraction from not only the darker history of Cape Town but the hustle and bustle of city life too. While you can still hear the commotion of the streets, the Gardens serve as a reminder of the natural beauty right on our doorstep.

As you walk the Gardens you are led to the Iziko South African Museum. It is here that you can walk through the history of Nelson Mandela, natural exhibits and even gaze at the stars in the planetarium, which is located just outside the museum. This is a fun family friendly way to see our city and to educate the younger generations

Taking a left off Roeland Street will lead you to the Castle of Good Hope, built in 1666, remains one of the oldest colonial buildings. It holds the history of our countries foundation and is one of the most visited sites in Cape Town.

With its beautiful architecture dating back decades sitting amongst modernized buildings, Roeland acts as a look into the past and the beauty of Cape Town. While taking in the beauty of the city, you can visit dine-in spots.

Barney’s Bistro and Merle’s Schnitzel are only two of the many stop off points that one may make along Roeland Street. Affordable and delicious food can be found here, drawing in more tourist interest.

Although South Africa’s history is tainted in many ways, the ability to look back into those times with interest is important as a South African citizen. Roeland street allows you to do this in a flowing manner.

Roeland Street is amazing in its ability to connect the whole of Cape Town and her history through one street. Everything seems to connect to the street and while not all of Cape Town’s well- known attractions are linked to Roeland, they are in the immediate environment.

This makes Roeland Street the middle point for sightseers, with everything starting at the Parliament Building in all its stark white beauty.

When travelling along Roeland Street, become aware and try to look around, appreciate the beauty just along one road. Stop in at some of the smaller dine-in spots and support small businesses. Why not? When it can all be found in one place.