Cape Agulhas has a history of shipwrecks, and the coastline is littered with ships that have had an unfortunate encounter with the Cape's shallow waters, sharp rocks, strong currents or hazardous winds. With so many ships that have met their fate in the Cape's waters, a lighthouse was built in 1849.
When we arrived at the Cape, we were greeted by a small storm that was passing through. A very common occurrence as the weather changes so often in the Cape. A little rain never hurt! Ross grabbed his bagpipes and kilt and played Amazing Grace from atop of the monument that marks the dividing line between the Atlantic and Indian Oceans.
We also had to see the famed Cape Agulhas Light House while we were there. The construction of the lighthouse was inspired by Egypt's Pharos of Alexandria, and its influence can be seen in the details of the base and tower. The beautiful red and white stripped tower popped against the deep blue South African sky.
The Lighthouse was the third to be built in South Africa, and today is the second-oldest still operating lighthouse. We visited the museum within the base and then scaled the ladders to get to the top.
For more information: L'Agulhas Tourism
Written by: Ross O'Connell Jennings
