Robben Island

Robben Island, located 11 km from Cape Town at the entrance to Table Bay, has a rich history dating back to its discovery by Bartolomeu Dias in 1488. Initially used as a refueling station by Portuguese, English, and Dutch navigators, the island later became a multifaceted site. From housing Dutch settlers' livestock in 1654 to serving as a prison for political leaders, including early inhabitants like Autshumato and those from Dutch colonies, Robben Island witnessed various roles. Over the years, it functioned as a leper colony, animal quarantine station, and a whaling station established by Scottish whaler John Murray in 1806. Following the end of apartheid, the island transformed into a significant tourist destination, managed by the Robben Island Museum. Declared a World Heritage Site in 1999, the island welcomes visitors through tours departing from Cape Town's waterfront, offering insights into its historical sites, including the former maximum-security prison where Nelson Mandela was incarcerated. The treacherous surrounding waters also hold a maritime history with numerous shipwrecks, showcasing the challenges faced by seafarers navigating near Robben Island over the centuries.