Vasco da Gama Clock

Durban


This florid Victorian monument on the embankment, just east of Stalwart Simelane St, was presented by the Portuguese government in 1897 to mark the 400th anniversary of Vasco da Gama’s sighting of Natal.

Sadly, after a spate of vandalism the clock is being relocated to the grounds of the Royal Natal Yacht Club, where it still can be viewed by the public, albeit from behind a fence. It was still being reconstructed at the time of writing.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Durban attractions

1. Dick King Statue

0.29 MILES

A statue commemorating Dick King (Richard Philip King), who brought reinforcements during the 1842 siege of Durban.

2. Wilson’s Wharf

0.35 MILES

This once-hip waterside development is now a little tired, but it’s the best place to get a view of Durban’s harbour and its activities. The harbour is…

3. Francis Farewell Square

0.4 MILES

This palm-lined square outside City Hall is named after the founder of the Port Natal colony and is where Fynn and Farewell made their camp in 1824.

4. Art Gallery

0.44 MILES

Under City Hall's impressive dome is this gallery with a small but interesting collection of South African artworks, including paintings, mixed media and…

5. Madressa Arcade

0.45 MILES

The shops of Madressa Arcade are a flurry of colourful fabrics and piles of spices. Even if you don't find anything to buy, the architecture makes for a…

6. Natural Science Museum

0.46 MILES

This museum at City Hall boasts an impressive, if pleasantly retro, display of stuffed birds and insects, plus African animals. Check out the cockroach…

7. City Hall

0.46 MILES

Dominating the city centre is the opulent 1910 Edwardian neo-baroque City Hall. In front of the hall is Francis Farewell Square.

8. Juma Mosque

0.48 MILES

The largest mosque in the southern hemisphere; call ahead for a guided tour.