Rhodes Memorial Travel Guide
Situated against Devil’s Peak behind the University of Cape Town, the memorial was constructed in remembrance of Cecil John Rhodes. He has played an important role in the formation of the sub continent at the end of the 19th century. The views from here, looking towards Stellenbosch and Somerset West in the distance, are impressive. A visit to the University of Cape Town, now celebrating its 175th year of existence, is well worth the time.
The Rhodes Memorial was build on one of Cecil John Rhode’s favourite viewpoints – you will understand why he loved this spot so much when you look towards the mountains in the distance. It was designed by Sir Herbert Baker and build in 1912. The centre of the monument holds a statue of a man on a horse, and is an exact copy of the statue “Physical Energy” found in Hyde Park, London. There is a cosy tea room located behind the memorial.
Beautiful forests surround the memorial and a spectacular hiking path will take you to the King’s Blockhouse on Devil’s Peak.
On your way to the memorial, you will pass the Upper Campus of the University of Cape Town (UCT) – at the age of 175 years the oldest University in South Africa. It is today Africa’s leading research University. It is impressively situated against the eastern slopes of Table Mountain and a walk around the historical grounds is enjoyable.
You will also pass the Groote Schuur Hospital on your left hand side driving towards the monument – it is here where the world’s first heart transplant was performed by Chris Barnard in 1967.How to get there
From the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC) take the N2 towards the airport. Turn right off the M3 (Rhodes drive) and left into the UCT Upper Campus off-road (Rosebank turnoff). Drive in Upper Road until you reach the Upper Campus. From the Upper Campus continue south and look out for the signs towards Rhodes Memorial which lies behind the University.
Travel checklist
- Visited the University of Cape Town's historic grounds
- Enjoyed the view from Rhodes Memorial and had a tea at the memorial’s tea room
- Discovered the forests around Rhodes Memorial
Useful numbers
Rhodes Memorial 021 701 8692
University of Cape Town 021 650 9111
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