Culture of Stellenbosch. Places to visit - old town, temples, theaters, museums and palaces

It is no question that Universiteit Stellenbosch is the main historical and architectural landmark of the town. It opened in 1865 as a public school, and already one year later the educational institution got the status of a gymnasium. Starting from 1881, the gymnasium changed its name to Victoria College. The next milestone in the history of the university happened in 1918. An outstanding politician and public figure, Mr. Jan Marais, made a donation of 100,000 pounds for the development of education in the town. The college was renamed as Stellenbosch University, and this fact made a significant impact on the life of the town in general. Already in 1918, as many as 500 people studied there, and the academic staff included more than 40 highly qualified teachers.

Nowadays, Stellenbosch University is one of the largest educational institutions of not only South Africa but also the Southern hemisphere in general. The main campus of the university is also the most beautiful architectural landmark in the town. The territory of the university includes a magnificent botanical garden, Botanical Garden University of Stellenbosch , that is also one of the major places of interest in Stellenbosch. In this garden, visitors will find hundreds of plant species, wonderful artificial ponds and a large pavilion with orchids, a visit to which simply cannot leave anyone indifferent.

Fans of outdoor activities and walking will like Dorp Street , which is recognized as one of the most beautiful streets in Stellenbosch. It’s the place where visitors will see many beautiful and old buildings. Surprisingly, all houses look virtually flawless despite the fact that many of them were constructed centuries ago. There are also unusual cultural centers in the town, and The Village Museum is, without a doubt, one of the leaders. This is the place where visitors will learn more about the life of first settlers. During an excursion, tourist will look into charming small houses and see the colonial style design of the past. The museum complex looks like a classical colonial village, in which everything reminds of the culture and traditions of the past. Every building in the complex exhibits priceless artifacts – collections of antique furniture and artworks, household items and old toys. The museum is surrounded by a beautiful garden, a walk in which will also be an unforgettable one. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

Art connoisseurs will hardly find a more interesting place to visit than Rupert Museum. The collection of sculptures and paintings exhibited in the museum is very interesting and throws light upon the multifaceted talent of the great artist. There are also some religion-related landmarks in Stellenbosch, and tourists are recommended to visit them. Dutch Reform Church is one of such places. It was constructed right after the foundation of Stellenbosch. The beautiful church features the traditional European style that hasn’t changed through centuries. Don’t forget to go inside to see the original décor and feel the inimitable atmosphere of the past.

Out of other notable tourist landmarks, it’s particularly important to mention Stellenbosch Historical Musuem. Its collection of exhibits is relatively not big, but there are many unique items. Despite the small size, The Rhenish Mission Church is also an outstanding historical and architectural landmark of Stellenbosch. The church is an incredibly harmonious and solemn place with the gorgeous décor. The town’s suburbs are no less interesting and not deprived of landmarks that will help to make your vacation even more interesting.