To most, the name Cape Cross relates to the Fur Seal Reserve along the Namibian Skeleton Coast. However, its origins are rather interesting. During the Great Exploration, the Portuguese were the first Europeans to land on Namibian soil. Namely, Diogo Cão in 1486. Before shipping out, he erected a stone cross in honour of the king of Portugal.
Grobler du Preez • Shutterstock.com
The crosses served varied purposes. Some symbolised religion, proclaimed ownership of the land, and, of course, served as landmarks for passing ships. Centuries later, the cross was taken down and sent to a museum in Berlin. It was replaced with another cross, constructed by German settlers in the 1800s.
Eventually, the German colonials invested further research into Cape Cross and found the massive Cape Fur Seal colony. The Englishman who was doing the exploring also found a great reserve of guano (i.e. bird poo). Yes, most of us would probably find this discovery rather uninteresting. However, there was a great need for the product in England to be used as a fertiliser.
Just like that, a concession was granted by the German Colonial power for the English to establish the Damaraland Guano Company. Eventually, the general focus shifted from guano to seal skins. The shift included a change in authority as well. Coming to an end in 1903.
Finally, in 2001, all that remained was demolished to make way for the Cape Cross Lodge, and the Reserve was founded. Today, the location serves as an attraction to visitors. It is strange to think about how much happened at the site and how things have shifted over time.
This is a great place to visit while staying at The Delight Hotel in Swakopmund.
The Delight Swakopmund to Cape Cross Seal Reserve • Google Maps
Author – Jescey Visagie is a proud Namibian and is passionate about writing and language. Tag along for the ride as she tries to uncover new insights into Namibia and explores what the country has to offer.
SUBMIT YOUR COMMENT