Craving a green escape in the heart of Cape Town? Right here is De Waal Park. It is an oasis away from the city. De Waal Park is not just any park. It is a place steeped in history. It is loved by Capetonians.
This park started as part of the Van Breda Estate. The Town Council of Cape Town bought the land in 1877. They wanted to build the Molteno Reservoir. The land below the reservoir then became a natural park.
David Christiaan de Waal saw the park’s potential. He was a city councillor and a friend of Cecil John Rhodes. He pushed to develop the park. De Waal also served as Cape Town’s mayor. This was in 1889 and 1890. The park officially opened to the public in 1895.
For a short time, it was called Jubilee Park. But it went back to being De Waal Park. It still carries his name today.
Look around. You will see many tall, shady trees. De Waal loved trees. He made sure thousands were planted here. The park boasts over 120 species of trees.
In 1898, the Victorian Fountain was installed. Find it in the middle of the park. The pond around it was added later in 1985. The fountain is fed by a natural artesian well. It even supplies water to the Lower Reservoir No. 2.
Take a stroll along Camp Street. Notice the wall. It was built in 1899. The wall then went up Upper Orange Street in 1900.
Did you know that the bandstand has a story too? It was first used at the Cape Town Industrial Exhibition. This exhibition took place in Green Point. After the exhibition, it was moved here in 1905. Military bands played here on Sundays.
De Waal Park became a National Monument in 1968. Today, it is listed as a Provincial Heritage Site. This protects it for future generations.
Today, people come to De Waal Park for many reasons. Some walk their dogs. Some enjoy picnics. Others run or jog. The park also hosts free outdoor concerts in the summer. These concerts take place on Sunday afternoons.
The Friends of De Waal Park help keep it beautiful. They work with the City of Cape Town. This ensures the park remains clean, safe, and well-maintained.
So next time you need a break from the city. Remember De Waal Park. It is a place to relax. It is a place to connect with nature. It is a place with a rich history.