Bartholomew Dias Museum - Mossel Bay, Western Cape
Bartholomew Dias Museum - Mossel Bay, Western Cape
Bartholomew Dias Museum Complex and the Shell and Maritime Museum are prominent cultural attractions located in Mossel Bay, Western Cape, South Africa. They offer a rich insight into the maritime history and cultural heritage of the region.
The BartholomewDias Museum officially opened in 1989 and is probably the most popular attraction in Mossel Bay in the Western Cape of South Africa. The Museum consists of four different museums and several monuments. A statue of Bartholomew Dias stands outside the famous 500 year old Post Office Tree, which is an old Milkwood Tree used by sailors for the safe delivery of letters.
The Shell Museum and Aquarium was built in 1902 and was later incorporated as part of the Dias Museum in 1987. It has an impressive shell collection and displays of creative ways shells were used by man. There is also an interesting "whale and dolphin" exhibit. There are often school groups who enjoy this museum and aquarium, especially for the interesting "touch tank" where visitors actively learn more about the underwater sea world.
The Maritime Museum was built in 1901 as a grain and saw mill but later also became part of the museum where a life size ship was built. This exhibit is the replica of the Dias caravel and visitors may board the ship for an exciting and historic tour where you will learn about Bartholomew Dias' voyages which has made the Western Cape so famous.
Bartholomew Dias Museum Complex
1. Historical Significance: The Bartholomew Dias Museum Complex is dedicated to the renowned Portuguese explorer, Bartolomeu Dias, who was the first European to sail around the southern tip of Africa in 1488. The museum complex celebrates his achievements and the early maritime history of the Cape.
2. Key Attractions: The museum features several notable exhibits, including a replica of Dias's caravel, the São Gabriel, which provides visitors with an understanding of the ship’s design and the conditions of 15th-century sea voyages. The complex also includes the Dias's Cross, a historical monument that marks the spot where Dias's expedition is believed to have landed.
3. Cultural and Educational Programs: The Bartholomew Dias Museum Complex offers various educational programs, workshops, and guided tours aimed at enhancing visitors' knowledge of maritime history and the cultural heritage of the Western Cape. The museum also hosts events and exhibitions that explore local history and maritime traditions.
Shell and Maritime Museum
1. Collection and Exhibits: The Shell and Maritime Museum is renowned for its extensive collection of shells from around the world, along with maritime artifacts. The museum showcases a wide variety of shell species, including rare and unique specimens. The maritime section of the museum features exhibits related to the history of shipping and maritime navigation.
2. Educational Focus: The museum provides educational insights into marine life and the historical significance of shell collections. It offers information on the role of shells in various cultures and their use in art, currency, and as tools. The maritime exhibits highlight the development of seafaring technology and the history of local shipping routes.
3. Visitor Experience: Visitors to the Shell and Maritime Museum can enjoy interactive displays and well-curated exhibits that offer a deep dive into both the natural world of shells and the history of maritime exploration. The museum aims to engage and educate visitors of all ages about these fascinating subjects.
Contact Details
Address: Bartholomew Dias Museum Complex, Market Street, Mossel Bay, Western Cape, South Africa
Phone Number: +27 (0)44 691 1068
Email: see website
Website: Bartholomew Dias Museum Complex
For more information on visiting hours, entrance fees, and special events, contacting the museum directly or visiting their website is recommended.
Accommodation Near Bartholomew Dias Museum - Mossel Bay, Western Cape
Santos Beach Flat no.26
Self Catering Apartment, Flatlet Accommodation in Mossel Bay
0.7km from Bartholomew Dias Museum - Mossel Bay, Western CapeSantos Beach Flat No 26 offers self catering beachfront accommodation in in Mossel Bay Town, Garden Route, Western Cape. Situated right in front of the famous Santos Beach, in the coastal town of Mossel Bay. Activities right on your doorstep includes... …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
51 on High
Self Catering House, Cottage, Chalet Accommodation in Mossel Bay
0.8km from Bartholomew Dias Museum - Mossel Bay, Western Cape51 on High is a modern 4 bedroom self catering house in Mossel Bay with expansive views of the harbour and a 5-10 minute walk to restaurants, bars and the Point. Featuring a jacuzzi, braai area and plenty outdoor seating. …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
King Cenric flat no 1
Self Catering Apartment, Flatlet Accommodation in Mossel Bay
0.9km from Bartholomew Dias Museum - Mossel Bay, Western CapeKing Cenric flat no1 offers self catering accommodation in Mossel Bay in the Garden Route, Western Cape. This north facing three bedroom self catering apartment on the ground floor boasts stunning sea views. Only a 10 metre lawn between apartment and sea. …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Argyle B1
Self Catering Apartment, Flatlet Accommodation in Mossel Bay
1km from Bartholomew Dias Museum - Mossel Bay, Western CapeArgyle B1 provides 8-sleeper self catering apartment accommodation in Mossel Bay, Garden Route, Western Cape. This north-facing apartment is located in Mossel Bay, halfway between the historic Point Village and the eastern end of the Mossel Bay harbour. …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Argyle B2
Self Catering Apartment, Flatlet Accommodation in Mossel Bay
1km from Bartholomew Dias Museum - Mossel Bay, Western CapeArgyle B2 provides 6-sleeper self catering apartment accommodation in Mossel Bay and is within walking distance of the Point, the harbour, tidal pool, several restaurants, coffee shops and flea markets. …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Perna Perna Mossel Bay
Self Catering Apartment, Flatlet Accommodation in Mossel Bay
1.2km from Bartholomew Dias Museum - Mossel Bay, Western CapePerna Perna Mossel Bay provides self catering apartment accommodation in Mossel Bay, Garden Route, Western Cape. Mossel Bay is set against an impressive rocky hillside in a coastal village and popular holiday town, surround by a sun-drenched peninsula... …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
84 Estoril Villas
Self Catering Apartment, Flatlet Accommodation in Mossel Bay
3.9km from Bartholomew Dias Museum - Mossel Bay, Western CapeEstoril Villas (security complex), modern, self-catering apartment at the popular Diaz Strand, Mossel Bay. This six sleeper is a mere 200m from the beach. …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Diaz Beach Apartment
Self Catering Apartment, Flatlet Accommodation in Mossel Bay
4km from Bartholomew Dias Museum - Mossel Bay, Western CapeDiaz Beach Apartment offers self catering accommodation in Mossel Bay in the Garden Route, Western Cape. Diaz Beach Apartment is an absolute beachfront 3 bedroom self-catering apartment with amazing views over the ocean and Mossel Bay. …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
55 Vista Bonita
Self Catering Apartment, Flatlet Accommodation in Diaz Beach, Mossel Bay
4km from Bartholomew Dias Museum - Mossel Bay, Western Cape55 Vista Bonita is a 2 bedroom,1 bathroom, beachfront self-catering apartment with direct access to the beach and views over the ocean and Mossel Bay. direct access to the beach and superb views over the ocean as well as Mossel Bay. …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
La Palma Villa C12
Self Catering Apartment, Flatlet Accommodation in Mossel Bay
4km from Bartholomew Dias Museum - Mossel Bay, Western CapeLa Palma Villa C12 is a self catering apartment in Diaz Beach, Mossel Bay in the Garden Route. This self catering accommodation is located in a secure complex. There is an elevator in the apartment block as well as full access control and security... …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
- Ethno Botanical Garden and Braille Trail - Mossel Bay (0.05km)
- Old Post Tree (0.16km)
- Romonza Boat Trips (0.36km)
- Shark Cage Diving at Mossel Bay (0.47km)
- Sunset Cruise on the Seven Seas (0.49km)
- The Old Power Station Building (0.52km)
- The Santos Pavilion (0.71km)
- Bay View Hospital - Mossel Bay (1.13km)
- Cape St. Blaize Hiking Trail - Mossel Bay (1.25km)
- Cape St. Blaize - Mossel Bay (1.29km)
- Cape St. Blaize Lighthouse Complex - Mossel Bay (1.48km)
- Mossel Bay Golf Club (1.50km)
- Cape St Blaize Cave - Mossel Bay (1.56km)
- Mossel Bay Hospital (1.59km)
- Oystercatcher Trail - Gouritzmond to Mossel, Garden Route (1.59km)
- The Tidal Pool and Blougat (1.65km)
- Seal Island - Mossel Bay (3.71km)
- Langeberg Mall Mossel Bay (4.99km)
- Garden Route Casino and Spa - Mossel Bay (5.36km)
- Pinnacle Golf Course (5.41km)
