A sprawling building near the shoreline of Table Bay, the Castle of Good Hope is a 17th-century site that draws large crowds. Built by the Dutch between 1666 and 1679 for defensive purposes, this castle has a pentagonal structure with massive stone walls and still houses the headquarters of the military command of the Western Cape. If possible, you can visit the castle on one of the free guided tours that take place Monday through Saturday at 11 a.m., 12 p.m., and 2 p.m. Inside the Castle of Good Hope you'll find the interesting Military Museum and the William Fehr Collection at the Castle of Good Hope (www.iziko.org.za/static/page/william-fehr-collection), which houses exhibitions of ancient artifacts and decorative works of great interest. Don't forget to climb to the top of the ramparts to see the entire castle structure from above and a wonderful view that goes all the way to Grand Parade.
