Robben Island - Cape Town
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Robben Island was a leper colony from 1844 to the early 1900's. It's estimated 1,500 lepers were buried. © Graham Holtshausen, License![]()
Robben Island Harbour © Brian Burger, License
Robben Island - Cape Town
Robben Island, off the coast of Cape Town is associated the world over with the struggles and oppression of Apartheid. Today it is a beacon of triumph telling of the victory over human rights abuse and the fight against oppression. At different times between the 17th and 20th centuries Robben Island has been used as a military training base, a prison and even a hospital. During World War 2 soldiers were trained on Robben Island and it was used as a great defence point. Between 1846- 1937 a hospital was on Robben Island for patients suffering with leprosy, mental instability and chronic illness. This was because the island created the perfect place to keep these patients isolated from the community preventing the spread and dangers of the illnesses. At the same time prisoners like Nelson Mandela were being kept on Robben Island for political and common law crimes thus making the island a prison also for the patients who had no cure.
Robben Island is Located about 12 kilometres away from Cape Town. It is 3 kilometres long and 1.5 kilometres wide and rises 35 metres above sea level. When the first settlers arrived in Table Bay they discovered an island full of birds and seals making it a good source of food. Penguin eggs where especially sought after for their size and taste and the seals were not only good for food but also their pelts. This caused both species to drastically drop in numbers. Today however the Island has been turned into a sanctuary to protect them and many tuxedo-dressed penguins now greet you on your arrival at Robben Island.
5 Interesting facts about Robben Island in Cape Town:
1. Historical Prison: Robben Island is most famous for being the prison where Nelson Mandela was incarcerated for 18 of his 27 years in prison. Other notable political prisoners, such as Walter Sisulu and Govan Mbeki, were also held here during the apartheid era.
2. UNESCO World Heritage Site: In 1999, Robben Island was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is recognized for its historical significance and as a symbol of the triumph of the human spirit over adversity and oppression.
3. Diverse History: Before its role as a prison, Robben Island served multiple purposes over the centuries, including as a leper colony, a mental institution, and a military base during World War II. Its diverse history reflects its strategic location and the evolving needs of the colonial and apartheid governments.
4. Museum and Educational Tours: Today, Robben Island is a museum and a popular tourist destination. Guided tours, often led by former political prisoners, provide visitors with a firsthand account of life on the island and the struggle for freedom and democracy in South Africa.
5. Ecological Importance: Besides its historical significance, Robben Island is also important ecologically. It is home to several bird species, including African penguins and a variety of seabirds. The island's natural environment is protected, and conservation efforts are ongoing to preserve its unique flora and fauna.
Verblyf Naby Robben Island - Cape Town
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