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Monument Monday - Dias and Da Gama Crosses at the Cape of Good Hope

Posted Mon, 28 Nov (6 months ago)

This week our Monument Monday feature looks at the crosses at Cape Point.

The Portuguese government erected two navigational beacons, Dias Cross and Da Gama Cross, to commemorate Vasco da Gama and Bartolomeu Dias (pictured) the first explorers to reach the Cape.

When lined up, the crosses point to Whittle Rock, a large, permanently submerged shipping hazard in False Bay. Two other beacons in Simonstown provide the intersection.

 

Dias Cross                                                                Da Gama Cross

 

 (Info and images: source)

Visitors to the beautiful Cape of Good Hope reserve can view both of these crosses. The reserve is a wonderful unspoiled place where one can spend a whole day hiking, visiting shipwrecks, swimming or surfing, braaing at designated braai areas, picnicking or cycling.

Those who want to head up to the main lighthouse can do so on foot from the visitors centre (easily accessible by car) or can take the 'Flying Dutchman' funicular to the top for incredible views.

There is an excellent restaurant at Cape Point.



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