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The colossus who shaped southern Africa
Rhodes Memorial, Cape Town
The Rhodes Memorial in Cape Town.
© South African Tourism
Did you know?
The De Beers mining company at one time controlled 90% of the market for rough diamonds.
Rhodes Memorial on the slopes of Devil's Peak in Cape Town honours one of the most controversial figures of South Africa's past.
Those who admired him thought him a ‘colossus'; those who loathed him believed he had aspirations to be ‘the Emperor of Africa'. What cannot be argued is that he was a larger-than-life character bestriding our political landscape, thus the Rhodes Memorial in Cape Town.
Cecil John Rhodes, born in England, made his fortune on the diamond diggings of Kimberley. He was the founder of the De Beers diamond company, but it was in politics that he left an indelible impression.
An arch imperialist, he had grand visions of a string of British dominions stretching from Cape to Cairo. In 1880 he was elected to the Cape parliament as a member for Barkly West, becoming prime minister a decade later. At the same time he used mining charters and his wealth to establish corporate control over what is now Zimbabwe, Zambia and Malawi.
His dream was also to bring the 2 Boer republics under British influence. To this end he was a crucial conspirator in the disastrous Jameson Raid, which contributed to the Anglo-Boer War, now known as the South African War. He died in 1902 during the final stages of that conflict.
Designed by esteemed architect Herbert Baker, Rhodes Memorial in Cape Town is situated on his favourite spot facing northeast. The memorial is on land he owned on the lower slopes of Table Mountain, much of which he bequeathed to the nation on his death.
Sharing space with the Rhodes Cape Town memorial are the University of Cape Town's upper campus and the stunning Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden.
Travel tips & Planning info
Who to contact
Cape Town Tourism
Tel: +27 (0)21 487 6800
Email info@capetown.travel
How to get here
The Rhodes Memorial is on the Groote Schuur side of Table Mountain. Take a taxi or bus to the University of Cape Town campus and its a short hike up to the memorial. Alternatively, you can drive to the memorial.
Around the area
The Kirstenbosch National Botanical Gardens are a must. And don't forget to take a trip up Table Mountain for spectacular views - you can climb or take a cable car.
Get around
This is a beautiful area to stroll around in.
What will it cost
Entrance to the memorial is free of charge.
Length of stay
Half a day to a full day to visit both the Rhodes Memorial and the stunning Kirstenbosch National Botanical Gardens.
What to pack
Comfortable walking shoes or boots are a good idea. Winter is the rainy season in this part of the world so don't forget the raincoat or umbrella.
Where to stay
There is no shortage of establishments in Cape Town from award-winning boutique hotels, to charming guesthouses and budget B&Bs.
What to eat
The Rhodes Memorial Restaurant caters for all palates with a mix of international and local dishes.