A brightly dressed Muslim woman walks in the Bo Kaap district of Cape Town. Bo-Kaap is known for its brightly coloured homes and cobble stoned streets. The area is traditionally a multicultural neighbourhood, and of its population identify as Muslim. According to the South African Heritage Resources Agency, the area contains the largest concentration of pre-1850 architecture in South Africa, and is the oldest surviving residential neighbourhood in Cape Town.
The brightly coloured facades are attributed to an expression of freedom by the new homeowners, as all the houses were painted white while on lease.[4] Preservation of the area began in 1943 when 15 houses were restored by a group of prominent citizens, with the support of the Historical Monuments Commission. In 1966 a portion of the area was designated as a National Monument. From 1971 the City Council began restoring houses and streetscapes, with 48 units completed by 1975.
Size: 5787px × 3864px
Location: Bo-Kaap, Cape Town, South Africa
Photo credit: © Neil O'Shea / Alamy / Afripics
License: Licensed
Model Released: No
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