Restoration project completed at Groot Constantia

Cape Town, 7 May 2008 – The Groot Constantia Estate recently completed a restoration project to curtail the erosion of the river bank on which the historic Cloete wine cellar at Groot Constantia stands.

A stone gabion, or wire-netted cage filled with stones, will now redirect floodwater and halt the erosion that would have eventually threatened the Cellar, which was built in 1791.

expensive exercise, it would not only last for ‘a very long time’ but would in itself be of heritage importance to future generations. Furthermore, the new structure would also ‘benefit the ecology of the sensitive river system further downstream’.

The Cloete Cellar forms part of the famous 18th century Manor House and Wine Museum, once the home of Simon van der Stel, first Governor of the Cape of Good Hope. The museum falls under the auspices of Iziko Museums of Cape Town and is a popular attraction for local and overseas visitors. With its superb collection of period furniture and ceramics, it is also a magnificent example of Cape Dutch architecture.

The Manor House is open daily to the public, except Workers’ Day and Christmas Day, from 10:00-17:00.

Enquiries: 021 795 5140.

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