Prinzessin Rupprecht Heim, National monument and former hospital in Swakopmund, Namibia.
Prinzessin Rupprecht Heim is a former hospital in Swakopmund featuring classical architectural details such as high roofs, gables, and dormer windows along Anton Lubowski Street. The building now functions as a sanatorium and retirement home while also providing accommodation for visitors.
The building was constructed in 1902 as a military hospital and converted in 1914 into a convalescent center by the German Red Cross. This transformation marked a shift from military to civilian use during the German colonial period.
The building bears the name of Marie Gabrielle, wife of Crown Prince Rupprecht of Bavaria, reflecting historical connections between Germany and Namibia. This naming choice shows how German settlers and institutions chose to honor their homeland in this region.
The building is located near the Namibian coast and easily accessible from Swakopmund's town center on foot. Visitors should note that it remains an active sanatorium, so certain areas may not be freely accessible.
Some original patient rooms still bear the names of Bavarian cities, a legacy of funding by local Red Cross associations during the 1913 renovation. These details reveal the personal connection between the supporting communities and their contributions.
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