Castle & Fan Fest

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Geo: -33.916, 18.4222

Today i headed off to the Castle of Good Hope, built by the dutch in the 16th Century after they set up a trading port here for the East India Trading Company. The Castle was completed in 1695, and occupied by the dutch until the early 18th Century when it was captured and controlled by the English.
It really was a worthwhile visit. The castle boasted a variety of elegantly contrasting architecture types, from the Original Dutch foundations, to English and French influences.
There was a museum and variety of interesting rooms and sections of the castle to explore.

Across the road from the castle was the World Cup 'FanFest.' I spend the afternoon here, laying out in the sun with snacks and beers to watch Italy Vs New Zealand. What should have been one of the biggest ever upsets, was reduced somewhat to a draw, for Italy's 4398534098943th undeserved penalty.... sigh.

Awaiting the Ivory Coast vs Brazil match, i headed off for dinner with Lauren. Deciding it was high time we experienced some authentic local/African cuisine, we stumbled upon an Ethiopian Resteraunt. This was an interesting experience. The meal consisted of very doughy 'bread', spongy in texture, made of water and flour. Along side it was a spicy mince dish, beef, pickles, potatoes and carrots. It was tasty enough, and was enjoyed with a live show of dancing and singing.

Finally we returned to Fan Fest for the Brazil Vs Ivory Coast match, finishing with a comprehensive 3-1 victory for the South Americans. It was an awesome place to watch the game, generating a good atmosphere (much like Fed Square) back home.. but actually AT the world cup, and with an incredible view of Table Mountain.
I was introduced to a local alcoholic cider called 'Fruit Ale' which was a treat and welcome alternative to the Castle Draught and Hansa found everywhere.

After just witnessing Korea take a thrashing by Portugal 7-0, im having a cruisy evening and dinner later at the Waterfront.

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Photos

Courtyard
Entrance arrival of the castle.

Outside Castle
Arrival at the Castle of Good Hope.
Me with a cannon

Arsenal
This is one of the original rooms of the castle, used as an Arsenal.

Kris Dungeon
Me in chains in the Dungeon

Lonely Prisoner
Me in one of the prison cells of the castle

Kris Castle
Me on the stairs

Kris Castle
Thats me on top of a stairway inside the Castle of Good Hope

Dolphin Pond
This area was originally built by the Dutch govenor with a dolphin fountain in the middle, and offices overlooking it. When occupied by the British it was bulldozed, and made into stables... tasteless. It was restored to its former glory 20 years ago.

Me up top of the castle walls
Thats table mountain in the background

Chimneys
View on top of the castle

Atop the Castle
Me on the castle walls

Table Mountain
quite a view from on top of the castle