Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
(Daniel Tjongarero St)
This rather stately building was constructed in 1902 to serve as the
district magistrates' court. It was extended in 1905, and again in 1945 when a tower was
added. After WWI it was converted into the official holiday home of the territorial admin-
istrator. In keeping with that tradition, it's now the official Swakopmund residence of the
president.
Marine Memorial
(Daniel Tjongarero St)
Often known by its German name, Marine Denkmal, this memori-
al was commissioned in 1907 by the Marine Infantry in Kiel (Germany) and designed by
sculptor AM Wolff. It commemorates the German First Marine Expedition Corps, which
helped beat back the Herero uprisings of 1904. As a national historical monument, it will
continue to stand, but one has to wonder how long it will be before the Herero erect a me-
morial of their own.
MONUMENT
Hohenzollern Building
(Libertine St)
This imposing baroque-style building was constructed in 1906 to serve as a
hotel. Its rather outlandish decor is crowned by a fibreglass cast of Atlas supporting the
world, which replaced the precarious cement version that graced the roof prior to renova-
tions in 1988.
HISTORIC BUILDING
German Evangelical Lutheran Church
(Daniel Tjongarero Av)
This neo-baroque church was built in 1906 to accommodate the
growing Lutheran congregation of Dr Heinrich Vedde - it still holds regular services.
CHURCH
Swakopmund Museum
( 402046; Strand St; adult/student N$20/10; 10am-5pm)
When ill winds blow, head
for this museum at the foot of the lighthouse, where you can hole up and learn about the
town's history. The museum occupies the site of the old harbour warehouse, which was
destroyed in 1914 by a 'lucky' shot from a British warship.
Displays include exhibits on Namibia's history and ethnology including information on
local flora and fauna. Especially good is the display on the !nara melon, a fruit that was
vital to the early Khoikhoi people of the Namib region.
MUSEUM
