Cape Town, known as the "Mother City" of South Africa, has a rich and complex history that dates back thousands of years. It was originally inhabited by the Khoisan people, who were hunter-gatherers and pastoralists living in the region for millennia.

In 1488, Portuguese explorer Bartolomeu Dias became the first European to round the Cape of Good Hope. Later, in 1652, Jan van Riebeeck of the Dutch East India Company (VOC) established a supply station at the Cape to provide fresh food and water for ships traveling between Europe and the East Indies. This marked the beginning of European colonization in the region.

During the 20th century, Cape Town played a significant role in South Africa’s apartheid history. Racial segregation laws forcibly removed non-white communities from areas like District Six. Robben Island, just off the coast, became a prison for political activists, including Nelson Mandela, who spent 18 years there before apartheid ended in 1994. Today, Cape Town is a global tourist destination, known for its natural beauty, diverse cultures, and historical significance. Iconic landmarks like Table Mountain, Robben Island, the Cape Winelands, and the V&A Waterfront attract millions of visitors each year. Despite progress, challenges such as inequality and housing shortages persist, but the city's vibrant spirit and resilience continue to define its identity.