Founders Day
April 6, Sunday
Historical context
On 6 April 1652, Dutch explorer Jan van Riebeeck founded the first European settlement in what is now South Africa. This was done on behalf of the Dutch East India Company, which sought to establish a staging post for its ships sailing to and from India.
The settlement in the area of what is now Cape Town became the starting point for subsequent European influence in the region. Van Riebeeck and his crew built a fort and began cultivating the land to provide food and fresh water for sailors passing through the Cape of Good Hope.
<B>How Foundation Day is Celebrated
Historical Reenactments Historical events and re-enactments are held in some places to commemorate the landing of Jan van Riebeeck and the early days of the colony.
Cultural events. Exhibitions, lectures and other events are organised to explore the history and culture of South Africa.
Discussions and debates. The day is also an opportunity to discuss complex aspects of the country's history, including the legacy of colonialism and its impact on modern society.
Visiting sites. People visit historical sites associated with the early colonial period, such as the Castle of Good Hope, the oldest surviving colonial building in South Africa.