Large rococo cabinet made of stinkwood with silver handles and escutcheons

Koopmans De Wet House

Koopmans-De Wet House Cape Town: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Complete Historical Site Guide

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

The Koopmans-De Wet House is Cape Town’s oldest house museum and a remarkable window into South Africa’s colonial heritage. Located at 35 Strand Street in the heart of the city, this meticulously preserved Cape Dutch townhouse tells the intertwined stories of prosperous merchants, enslaved individuals, and the dynamic evolution of Cape Town society from the early 18th century. Managed by Iziko Museums of South Africa, it is not only a national monument but also a vibrant educational and cultural resource.

This comprehensive guide explains the house’s origins, architectural highlights, social history, and practical visitor information, including current opening hours, ticket prices, tours, accessibility, and travel tips. Whether you are a history enthusiast, architecture buff, or a visitor keen to explore Cape Town’s rich heritage, the Koopmans-De Wet House offers a compelling and immersive experience.

Stinkwood and chestnut bureau cabinet with Cape silver keyplates from circa 1800

Introduction
Historical Overview
Architectural and Cultural Significance
Visiting Information
Role in Heritage Conservation and Community
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Summary and Next Steps
References and Further Reading

Historical Overview

Early History and Architecture

The Koopmans-De Wet House was constructed in 1701 on land granted by Governor Willem Adriaan van der Stel. Initially a modest thatched cottage, it evolved through the 18th and 19th centuries into a stately double-storey mansion. The iconic neoclassical facade, designed by architect Louis Thibault with sculptural embellishments by Anton Anreith, is a celebrated example of late 18th-century Cape Dutch and neoclassical design (SA History Online; SA Venues).

Notable features include:

Ornate gables and thick whitewashed walls for insulation
Sash windows with wooden shutters
Original floorboards, wall murals, and period interiors
A secluded courtyard garden with one of South Africa’s oldest grapevines

The Koopmans and De Wet Families

The house is named for the Koopmans and De Wet families, prominent Cape Town residents. Marie Koopmans-De Wet, the last private owner, was a philanthropist and heritage activist, renowned for her advocacy during the Anglo-Boer War and her preservation efforts for Cape Dutch culture (MapMyWay). The house’s collection reflects their refined tastes, with Cape furniture, silver, ceramics, and art from Europe and Asia.

Transition to Museum

After Marie’s death, the state acquired the property, and it opened as South Africa’s first period house museum in 1914. Supported by figures like architect Herbert Baker, the house set a precedent for heritage preservation in the country (Wikipedia). Today, it is a Provincial Heritage Site, managed by Iziko Museums.

Architectural and Cultural Significance

The Koopmans-De Wet House embodies the evolution of Cape Town’s built environment and social history:

Cape Dutch and Neoclassical Elements: The blend of early Cape Dutch with neoclassical Louis XVI features showcases the city’s changing tastes and transcontinental influences.
Domestic Life: The interiors are arranged to represent the lifestyle of a wealthy Cape family between the 18th and 19th centuries, including dining rooms, bedrooms, kitchens, and the coach house.
Inclusive Narratives: Recent curatorial work brings to light the lives of the enslaved and servant classes, offering a more comprehensive view of colonial society (Iziko Museums).
Collections: The museum’s holdings include furniture, Delft and Chinese porcelain, Cape silver, glassware, and wall murals of both local and international significance.

Visiting Information

Location

Address: 35 Strand Street, Cape Town City Centre, Cape Town, 8000

The museum is centrally situated, within easy walking distance of Greenmarket Square, the Castle of Good Hope, the Iziko Slave Lodge, and the Bo-Kaap district (Kapstadt.org; Cape Tourism).

Opening Hours

Tuesday to Sunday: 10:00 AM – 4:30 PM
Closed: Mondays and public holidays

Note: Hours may vary during special events or public holidays. Check the official Iziko Museums website or call +27 21 481 3935 before your visit.

Admission and Tickets

Adults: R30–R40
Students / Seniors: R25
Children under 12: Free
Discounts: Available for groups, students, and pensioners

Tickets are purchased at the entrance. Group and guided tour bookings should be arranged in advance.

Guided Tours and Events

Guided tours, led by knowledgeable staff, are available daily and provide deeper insight into the house’s architecture, collections, and layered history. The museum also hosts special exhibitions, lectures, and cultural events throughout the year (Iziko Museums Events).

Accessibility

Due to the building’s historic nature, full wheelchair access is limited. The main entrance is accessible, but interior staircases and uneven floors may pose challenges. Contact the museum in advance for assistance or to discuss specific needs (Iziko Museums).

Facilities and Amenities

Restrooms: Limited and located on site
Gift Shop: Small selection of books, postcards, and souvenirs
Café: None on site, but Strand Street and surrounds offer many dining options
Wi-Fi: Not typically available for public use
Parking: Street parking nearby (can be limited during peak times); public transport and taxis recommended

Travel Tips and Nearby Attractions

Combine your visit with nearby sites such as the Castle of Good Hope, Greenmarket Square, Bo-Kaap, and the Iziko Slave Lodge for a broader historical experience.
Allow 45–90 minutes to explore the house and its collections.
Weekday mornings are generally quieter.
Photography is allowed in most areas (no flash); ask staff for guidance.
Special Events: Check the Iziko Museums events page for lectures, exhibitions, or cultural programming.

Role in Heritage Conservation and Community

The Koopmans-De Wet House stands as a testament to Cape Town’s layered colonial history, blending architectural beauty with evolving social narratives. Its conversion into a museum in 1914 marked a milestone in heritage preservation, and ongoing restoration work ensures that future generations can access its stories. The site fosters community engagement through educational programs, school tours, and research opportunities, and recognizes the contributions of both elite families and marginalized groups (SA History Online; Iziko Museums).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the current opening hours?
A: Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00 AM – 4:30 PM. Closed Mondays and public holidays (Iziko Museums).

Q: How much are tickets?
A: R30–R40 for adults, R25 for students/seniors, children under 12 free.

Q: Is the house wheelchair accessible?
A: The main entrance is accessible, but some interior areas may be difficult to navigate due to the historic structure.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, daily guided tours are offered. Advance booking is recommended for groups.

Q: Where can I park?
A: Limited street parking is available nearby; public transport or walking is advised.

Q: Can I take photographs?
A: Yes, in most areas without flash. Restrictions may apply in certain exhibits.

Q: Is there a café or restaurant on site?
A: No, but many options are available on Strand Street and in the city centre.

Summary and Next Steps

The Koopmans-De Wet House is a cornerstone of Cape Town’s heritage, offering an authentic and nuanced perspective on the city’s colonial past, architectural traditions, and evolving social fabric. A visit to this historic house museum provides a rich educational and cultural experience, deepened by thoughtful interpretation and inclusive storytelling.

Plan your visit by checking the latest visiting hours and ticket prices, consider joining a guided tour for added context, and explore nearby attractions for a comprehensive view of Cape Town’s historic district. Support heritage preservation by sharing your experience and following Iziko Museums online. For curated audio tours and interactive content, download the Audiala app.