Royal Observatory, Cape of Good Hope, Astronomical observatory in Observatory district, Cape Town, South Africa
The Royal Observatory occupies a hilltop location 5 kilometers from downtown Cape Town, featuring multiple telescope facilities and research buildings within its grounds.
Established in 1820 during King George IV's reign, this institution stands as South Africa's oldest continuously operating scientific establishment.
The observatory maintains a national astronomy library and a museum displaying historical scientific instruments used throughout its research history.
Visitors can access guided tours of the facility, which include views of the main building, the astronomical instruments, and explanations of past research activities.
The observatory controls the Signal Hill Noon Gun, which fires daily at 12:00 to mark exact time for Cape Town residents since the 19th century.
Location: City of Cape Town
Elevation above the sea: 15 m
Part of: South African Astronomical Observatory
GPS coordinates: -33.93470,18.47760
Latest update: March 18, 2025 07:52
Cape Town progresses between sea and mountains with a pace that varies from neighborhood to neighborhood. As soon as you follow the Atlantic coast, the air becomes cooler, and then the city broadens towards the peaks where trails climb along rocky slopes. You then pass through older streets with colorful facades that catch the eye before reaching gardens stretching at the foot of Table Mountain. The recent history remains very present, and the traces of apartheid can still be felt when visiting the island where many political prisoners were held. Markets bring a lively, bustling atmosphere, much like the beaches where swimmers and marine animals mingle. This selection highlights places that define Cape Town’s spirit, allowing you to explore the city through its panoramas, neighborhoods, and heritage.
Rhodes Memorial
2.6 km
Paarden Eiland
2.4 km
Heart of Cape Town Museum
1.7 km
Baxter Theatre Centre
2.6 km
Rondebosch Common
2.4 km
Mostert's Mill
2.2 km
Treaty Tree
2.6 km
Hartleyvale Stadium
482 m
Greek Orthodox Cathedral of St George
2.6 km
MTN Sciencentre
1.4 km
Coornhoop
989 m
Rondebosch Library
3 km
Bolus Herbarium
2.8 km
Cape Town Science Centre
1.3 km
Salt River, Cape Town Community House
1.9 km
Statue of Cecil Rhodes
3 km
De Nieuwe Molen
499 m
South African Astronomical Observatory
41 m
UCT Irma Stern Museum
2.1 km
The Woolsack
2.6 km
Irma Stern Museum
2.1 km
Sarah Baartman Hall
3 km
Bijou Theatre
1 km
Mendi Memorial
2.3 km
Rondebosch Golf Club
2.6 km
Summer House
2.9 km
Palace Theatre
1.2 km
Welgelegen
2.3 kmReviews
Visited this place? Tap the stars to rate it and share your experience / photos with the community! Try now! You can cancel it anytime.
Discover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes