Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
In 1994 CDM gave way to Namdeb Diamond Corporation Limited (Namdeb), which is
owned in equal shares by the government of Namibia and the De Beers Group. De Beers
is a Johannesburg- and London-based diamond mining and trading corporation that has
held a virtual monopoly over the diamond trade for much of its corporate history. Today,
diamonds are still Lüderitz's best friend, though it's also home to several maritime indus-
tries, including the harvesting of crayfish, seaweed and seagrass, as well as experimental
oyster, mussel and prawn farms.
LÜDERITZ TOWN
Lüderitz is chock-a-block with colonial buildings, and every view reveals something in-
teresting. The curiously intriguing architecture, which mixes German imperial and art
nouveau styles, makes this bizarre little town appear even more other-worldly.
Sights
HISTORIC HOUSE
Goerke Haus
(Diamantberg St; admission N$25; guided tour 2-4pm Mon-Fri, 4-5pm Sat-Sun)
The
sheer scale of Goerke Haus and the way it blends into the rockface is very impressive.
Originally the home of Lieutenant Hans Goerke, designed by architect Otto Ertl and con-
structed in 1910 on Diamond Hill, it was one of the town's most extravagant properties.
The house has undergone an admirable renovation job and is certainly worth a look.
CHURCH
Felsenkirche
(Kirche St; 4-5pm Mon-Sat)
The prominent Evangelical Lutheran church dominates
Lüderitz from high on Diamond Hill. It was designed by Albert Bause, who implemented
the Victorian influences he'd seen in the Cape. With assistance from private donors in
Germany, construction of the church began in late 1911 and was completed the following
year. The brilliant stained-glass panel situated over the altar was donated by Kaiser Wil-
helm II, while the Bible was a gift from his wife. Come for the views over the water and
the town.
Lüderitz Museum
MUSEUM
