Dutch settlers in Cape Town surrender to the British.

Cape Town, known locally as Kaapstad in Afrikaans (pronounced [ˈkɑːpstat]) and iKapa in Xhosa, stands as one of South Africa's three vibrant capital cities, a unique feature of the nation's governance designed to ensure a distribution of power across its diverse regions. Specifically, Cape Town serves as the legislative capital, housing the esteemed Parliament of South Africa where national laws are debated, amended, and enacted. This legislative function is complemented by Pretoria in Gauteng, which acts as the administrative or executive capital and is home to the Presidency, while Bloemfontein in the Free State holds the status of judicial capital, housing the Supreme Court of Appeal. This decentralised system traces its origins back to the formation of the Union of South Africa in 1910, reflecting a political compromise to balance regional interests.

As the oldest urban area in South Africa, Cape Town holds a distinguished place in the country's history. It is also the nation's second-largest city, surpassed only by Johannesburg in terms of population and economic activity. Affectionately referred to as the "Mother City" (Afrikaans: Moederstad), a moniker believed to stem from its status as the first permanent European settlement in the country, Cape Town is the largest city within the Western Cape province and forms the core of the expansive City of Cape Town metropolitan municipality. Indeed, it is home to approximately 66% of the Western Cape's total population, underscoring its pivotal role in the region.

Beyond its governmental significance, Cape Town is globally recognised for its unique blend of urban sophistication and breathtaking natural beauty. It holds the esteemed ranking of a 'Beta world city' by the Globalization and World Cities Research Network (GaWC), signifying its crucial role as a nexus in the global economic system and its significant international connectivity and influence. The city's stunning natural setting is unparalleled, nestled within the Cape Floristic Region, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the world's most biodiverse areas. This region is renowned for its extraordinarily high percentage of endemic plant species, particularly the unique fynbos vegetation. Dominating the cityscape is the iconic flat-topped Table Mountain, a natural wonder that offers panoramic views and is a major draw for tourists and locals alike. Other prominent landmarks include the dramatic Cape Point, situated at the tip of the Cape Peninsula, and the bustling harbour which has been central to the city's development and continues to be a vital economic artery.

The city's magnetic appeal has garnered international acclaim. In 2014, Cape Town was simultaneously lauded by both The New York Times and The Daily Telegraph as the "best place in the world to visit," a testament to its vibrant culture, diverse attractions, and stunning landscapes.

The historical roots of Cape Town run deep, beginning on the picturesque shores of Table Bay. It was here that the Dutch East India Company (VOC) established a crucial maritime supply station on 6 April 1652, under the command of Jan van Riebeeck. This strategic outpost served as a vital refreshment point for Dutch ships undertaking the arduous journey between Europe and the lucrative markets of East Africa, India, and the Far East, providing fresh water, provisions, and a place for repairs. This initial establishment marked the very first permanent European settlement in South Africa, laying the foundation for what would become the Cape Colony.

From its humble beginnings as an outpost centered around the formidable Castle of Good Hope – the oldest surviving colonial building in South Africa, completed in 1679 – Cape Town rapidly outgrew its original purpose. It evolved into the pre-eminent economic and cultural hub of the burgeoning Cape Colony. For centuries, it remained the largest and most influential urban centre in South Africa, a status it held until the transformative impact of the Witwatersrand Gold Rush in the late 19th century, which led to the rapid development and eventual ascendancy of Johannesburg as the nation's largest metropolis.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cape Town

What are South Africa's three capital cities and their functions?
South Africa uniquely operates with three capital cities: Cape Town serves as the legislative capital, home to the Parliament; Pretoria functions as the administrative/executive capital, housing the Presidency; and Bloemfontein is the judicial capital, where the Supreme Court of Appeal is located. This system was historically adopted to distribute governmental power across different regions.
Why is Cape Town often referred to as the "Mother City"?
Cape Town earned the affectionate nickname "Mother City" because it was the site of the first permanent European settlement in South Africa, established by the Dutch East India Company in 1652, making it the oldest urban area in the country.
What is the significance of the Cape Floristic Region where Cape Town is located?
The Cape Floristic Region, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is globally recognized for its extraordinary biodiversity. It is one of the world's smallest but richest floral kingdoms, boasting an exceptionally high concentration of endemic plant species, particularly the unique fynbos vegetation, making it a critical area for global conservation.
When was Cape Town founded and by whom?
Cape Town was established on 6 April 1652, when Jan van Riebeeck, representing the Dutch East India Company (VOC), arrived to set up a vital supply station for ships sailing between Europe and the East, marking the beginning of permanent European settlement in South Africa.
What does it mean for Cape Town to be a "Beta world city"?
Being ranked as a "Beta world city" by the Globalization and World Cities Research Network (GaWC) signifies that Cape Town is a highly important global city. This ranking indicates its significant contribution to the global economy, strong international connectivity, and its role as a key center for trade, finance, culture, and innovation.