Observatory

Observatory is an artistic neighborhood in Cape Town where Lower Main Road contains independent shops, restaurants, and cafes inside restored Victorian and Edwardian buildings. The historic structures display detailed architectural features that reflect their original design from over a century ago.

The area began in 1657 as the Koornhoop Colony when the Dutch East India Company granted land to fourteen settlers in the Liesbeeck River valley. Over time it transformed from a farming settlement into a center for crafts and later artistic pursuits.

The neighborhood thrives through galleries, music venues, and theaters run by students and creative people who host regular cultural events throughout the year. These spaces reflect how artists use the area as a hub for sharing their work with the public.

The area connects to central Cape Town through multiple bus routes and offers convenient access to the N2 highway and the airport. Walking is the best way to explore the neighborhood, especially along Lower Main Road where shops and venues cluster together.

At the heart of the neighborhood sits the South African Astronomical Observatory, established in 1829 and still operating today. Walking through the area, visitors can encounter the original observatory buildings that house the specialized McClean Telescope, an overlooked landmark few notice.

Location: City of Cape Town

Elevation above the sea: 21 m

GPS coordinates: -33.93780,18.47080

Latest update: December 7, 2025 19:27