Bo-Kaap

The Bo-Kaap, which means “above the Cape” in Afrikaans, is one of Cape Town’s most distinct neighborhoods, famous for its brightly colored homes and cobble stone streets. The Bo-Kaap’s origins date back to the 1760s when several “huurhuisjes” (rental houses) were built and leased to slaves known as the Cape Malays, who were mostly brought from Malaysia, Indonesia and the rest of Africa. Hence, Bo-Kaap was formerly known as the Malay Quarter. The museum, whose building dates back to the 1760s, highlights the cultural contribution of early Muslim settlers.

The houses in Bo-Kaap are a mix of Cape Dutch and Georgian architecture. The colors can be traced back to a rule stating all the houses had to be white, while on lease. When the slaves were eventually allowed to buy the properties, the rule was lifted and the slaves painted the houses in bright colors to express their freedom.

Bo-Kaap

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