5 Stops For Exploring Mossel Bay’s History
4 min read
Mossel Bay has a rich history that stretches as far back as 170 000 years ago. Here are 5 attractions to visit to learn more about the history of our beloved town!
Pinnacle Point Caves and Cape St Blaize Cave
Mossel Bay’s history begins in the pre-modern times. The Pinnacle Point Caves hold evidence of human activity from between 170 000 and 40 000 years ago. This means that the caves were most likely occupied by Middle Stone Age people. The caves also provide the earliest evidence for the systemic exploitation of marine resources (like shellfish), for the use of dyes in symbolling (use of ochre), and for the use of heat treatment in the manufacturing of stone tools. To explore these caves, you will have to book a tour with Dr Nilssen, one of the two main archaeologists that started the scientific research of the site. The trip to and from the caves can be quite strenuous.
Those looking for a more relaxed cave exploration, head up to the Cape St Blaize cave at The Point. This natural grotto overlooks the sea and holds archaeological evidence of middens in the cave from San and Khoekhoen people, possibly dating as far back as 200 000 years. The cave is always open to the public and free of charge. It is also an excellent spot for whale and dolphin watching and is also the starting point for the 13-kilometre Cape St Blaize trail. This runs along the cliffs from Mossel Bay to Danabaai and is definitely worth the walk! ‘The Watering Place of St Blaize’ (Aguada de São Brás) was in fact one of Mossel Bay’s first names. The 1864 lighthouse sits atop the cave and overlooks the sea.
Dias Museum Complex
Bartolomeu Dias, a Portuguese seafarer, was the first European who sailed around the southern tip of Africa and landed on its shores in 1488. The Dias Museum Complex is thought to be home to the site where Europeans and the Khoekhoen had their first interactions. The museum houses a replica of Dias’s 1488 caravel, as well as information regarding maritime history. South Africa’s first post office, a sailor’s boot within an indigenous milkwood tree, is situated within the complex. It is also believed that an area of the museum grounds belonged to the local Muslim community and was used as a cemetery. The gravesite was uncovered in 1926 and is believed to belong to Muslim Saints that died in Mossel Bay around 1864 while enroute to modern-day Jakarta. The grave faces towards Mecca.
The Point
The Point has been a congregation point for many years. The town’s children have been learning to swim at the ‘Poort’ for a long time. This natural tidal pool is formed two large reefs set apart, creating a long inlet, and has been a place of joy and excitement for adults and children alike. Chains and ropes have been installed to assist against strong currents. Today, you will find lots of restaurant options and ice cream vans along the Point. It is also home to Mossel Bay’s War Memorial. 350 of the town’s men enlisted in the Great War, with 21 soldiers not returning home.
Harbour
The Mossel Bay Harbour has been an active port for over 200 years, with the first wheat shipment leaving the harbour in 1788. When ostrich feathers became all the rage at the late 19th century and early 20th century, the port exported more than 800 000 kilograms of feathers. With fishing and farming being one of the area’s main activities up to the early 20th century, the harbour remained active. When Mossel Bay became popular as a vacation destination, the harbour was visited, and is still visited, by a number of cruise liners each year. Today, you can find restaurants along the harbour, as well as water activities, like boat trips, deep sea fishing, and parasailing.
Beaches
Mossel Bay has been marketed as a holiday destination and ‘health resort’ since the early 1900s, with many flocking there for a well-deserved break. The beaches in Mossel Bay have their own history behind them. If you are staying at De Bakke Santos, you are sure to head to Santos beach. This beach got its name from a small German Schooner with the same name. In 1874 the vessel was at anchor in the harbour when a heavy swell dragged her out towards the sea, and she wrecked at Santos Beach. The beach also boasts the famous Pavillion. The building was erected in 1916 and modelled off of architecture from the seaside town of Brighton in England. It was originally used as a bathing pavilion and tearoom. Today it is made up of a restaurant that leads out right on to the beach.
As you can see, Mossel Bay has a long and rich history that is well worth exploring. Make sure to book your stay at De Bakke Santos for easy access to all these attractions. We look forward to welcoming you and showing you our beautiful coastal town!
