Try the Web App

Queen Victoria

Discover cities like never before.

Enjoy over self-guided city exploration with our app ‘Explory’. Learn all about the history and discover hidden more than 500.000 hidden gems, that only locals know about. Build custom tours, find nearby places, and start exploring instantly.

Try the Web App

Why is this statue looking so forlorn? Doesn’t she cut an imposing figure here in front of the Durban Public Library? This, ladies and gentlemen, is a statue of Queen Victoria, a monarch whose reign had a profound impact on South Africa. Although she never set foot in this country, her influence here was considerable. This statue, crafted by Edwin Roscoe Mullins, was unveiled in 1903 to commemorate her Diamond Jubilee. The statue, made of Sicilian marble, stands as a reminder of a complex and often controversial past. What you might not realize, though, is that this statue has been at the centre of political tension. In 2010, it was defaced with paint and the phrase “Goduka Europe,” which means “Go Home Europe” in Xhosa. This act of vandalism reflects the ongoing debate surrounding colonial monuments and their place in modern South Africa. Queen Victoria’s legacy is multifaceted, marked by both progress and oppression.

The story of Queen Victoria in Durban is just one of many fascinating insights you can discover with Explory. To experience the city beyond its surface, you need more than just a map – you need a smart guide that reveals the background, the culture, and the character of each place. With Explory’s city guide, you can dive deeper into Durban and transform your visit into a unique city tour filled with stories that bring history and everyday life to light. Explory connects you with Durban in a new way. Our guide doesn’t just show you where to go – it enriches your journey with context and atmosphere. Through carefully designed routes and storytelling, you’ll uncover hidden gems and unexpected highlights that even locals might miss. The audio guide makes the city come alive, allowing you to listen while you walk and explore at your own pace. Our city guide is ideal for travelers who want more than sightseeing. Whether your interest is culture, architecture, or local traditions, Explory enables authentic exploration. Each city tour is flexible and intuitive, helping you experience Durban with freedom while still being guided by expert knowledge. By combining narrative, navigation, and discovery, Explory ensures your trip becomes an adventure filled with hidden gems and lasting impressions. Take the next step and download the Explory App today. Inside, you’ll find over 300 cities and more than 500,000 POIs and stories to explore. Whether you’re searching for a reliable guide, want to try an immersive audio guide, or plan a memorable city tour, Explory is your all-in-one companion. Begin your journey now and uncover the true essence of Durban – only with Explory.

More Places in Durban

NARAISAMY TEMPLE

Why is the Narainsamy Temple so strikingly white? You might ask yourself that, standing here before its prominent spire. Unlike

Explore

MALVERN CHURCH

Gazing up at the Malvern Church, did you ever wonder how it got its name? The church stands proudly here

Explore

KLAARWATER SCHOOL

Established in 1903 Klaarwater Primary School stands proudly in Pinetown. It’s a public school a cornerstone of the community. Imagine

Explore

WENTWORTH HOSPITAL

“Optimal health status to all persons.” That’s the ambitious goal Wentworth Hospital strives for. Wentworth Hospital serves a large area.

Explore

WAKESLEIGH

What if these walls could talk at WAKESLEIGH? This imposing dwelling has witnessed over a century of Durban’s history. Let’s

Explore

AFM Church

Here at the AFM Church a story of faith unfolds. The AFM Church stands for Apostolic Faith Mission. It is

Explore

MCCORD HOSPITAL

Standing here, in front of the sprawling McCord Hospital, its past echoes in every brick and window. This was once

Explore