|
Donkin Heritage Trail
Province: Eastern Cape
City: Port Elizabeth
Explore the rich heritage of a bygone era of the Friendly City! As the landing place of the 1829 Settlers, it boasts some of the finest architectural attractions in South Africa. The Donkin Heritage Trail, which is a 5-km walking trails in the old Hill area of central Port Elizabeth, links 47 places of historical interest. (Books are available at Tourism Port Elizabeth's Donkin Reserve Information Office at a cost of R18-00). The upper part of the Heritage Trail has useful pedestrian signage, as well as blue staggered lines, which have been painted on the pavement to orientate tourists along the self-guided trail and includes the following historical attractions:
Campanile:
The Campanile was erected to commemorate the landing of the 1820 Settlers and is situated at the entrance to the railway station and docks in Strand Street. A climb of 204 steps takes one to the Observation Room, offering a magnificent view of the harbour and surroundings, more than 52m above the city. The Campanile contains the largest carillon of bells in the country in addition to its chiming clock. Opening times are Tuesdays to Saturdays from 09h00 till 12h30 and 13h30 till 17h00. On Sundays, opening times are from 14h00 till 17h00. (Closed on Mondays). Admission is by freewill donation.
Fort Frederick:
Fort Frederick, which is located along Belmont Terrace, Central, is a stone fort built in 1799 by the British Forces to defend the mouth of the Baakens River. It was named after Frederick, Duke of York, and was built by troops sent to Algoa Bay to prevent a possible landing of French troops to assist the Graaff-Reinet rebels. Yet, ironically, no shot was ever fired in anger from the Fort. The Fort, containing a powder magazine and a guardhouse, was originally defended by eight 12-powder guns. Opening times are daily, from sunrise to sunset and the admission is free.
City Hall:
The City Hall, which is located in Market Square, was built between 1858 and 1862. The attractive clock tower was only added in 1883. The City Hall serves as a Council Chamber as well as a concert hall, a lecture hall and offices for city council employees. It was proclaimed a national monument in 1973. Also in the Square, is a replica of the Diaz Cross, donated by the Portuguese Government to commemorate the arrival of Bartholomew Diaz in Algoa Bay in 1488.
Monument to Prester John:
Behind the City Hall, in Fleming Square, stands a monument dedicated to the mythical king-priest, Prester John, and the Portuguese explorers who discovered South Africa. It was the quest for Prester John as a Christian ally that led to expeditions to reach him by sailing around Africa. The Monument consists of a large Coptic cross and, in the central circle, are the figures of Prester John and a Portuguese navigator. The monument, which was unveiled in 1986 by the Portuguese Ambassador, is believed to be the only monument in the world depicting Prester John.
Donkin Reserve and Lighthouse Building:
Donkin Reserve, located off Belmont Terrace Central, and overlooking the city, was proclaimed an open space in perpetuity by Sir Rufane Donkin. It includes a Stone Pyramid Monument with a touching inscription erected by Sir Rufane Donkin in memory of his late wife, Elizabeth, after whom the city was named, as well as palm-lined walkways and benches. The Lighthouse, which was built in 1861, also houses Tourism Port Elizabeth, the official Tourist Information Centre. The Lighthouse is manned by a private concern and is opened to the public on request between 08h30 & 16h00 weekdays.
Horse Memorial:
The Horse Memorial, located on the corner of Russell and Cape Roads, was erected and dedicated to the horses killed during the South African War (1899-1902). It is an outstanding and famous piece of sculpture and is reputedly one of only two memorials in the world dedicated to horses. The inscription on the memorial reads "The greatness of a nation consists not so much in the number of its people or the extent of its territory as in the extent and justice of its compassion."
|
|
|
Search
for 2010 accommodation in South Africa
|
|
