Heritage

Explore our different sections below:

What is Heritage?

Heritage refers to the cultural, historical, and natural resources passed down through generations. It encompasses our environment’s tangible and intangible aspects, such as buildings, landscapes, monuments, traditions, languages, and practices. These elements provide a sense of identity and continuity, shaping our communities and how we interact with the world.

In Stellenbosch, heritage includes the historic town centre with its well-preserved Cape Dutch buildings, oak-lined streets, and surrounding landscape. It also includes the traditions and stories of the diverse groups that have lived here over the centuries.

Why is Heritage Important?

Heritage is essential for several reasons:

Cultural Identity and Pride: Heritage connects us to our past, giving us a sense of identity and pride in our community and history.

Educational Value: Heritage provides a wealth of knowledge about the origins of places, people, and events that shaped the present. It helps us understand cultural diversity and human progress.

Tourism and Economic Benefits: Heritage sites attract tourists and can be a significant source of income for local economies. Protecting heritage can also create jobs in the tourism and conservation sectors.

Social Cohesion: Shared heritage fosters unity within communities, bringing people together to celebrate common history and values.

Environmental Stewardship: Preserving heritage sites often involves maintaining landscapes and natural resources, promoting sustainability.

Here you have access to view and download all  Heritage Resource Management related documents:

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WHO TO CONTACT	DIRECTORATE: PLANNING & ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Katherine Robinson Senior Heritage Planner	021 808 8608 Katherine.Robinson@stellenbosch.gov.za
Kaizer Makati Heritage Planner	021 808 8603 Kaizer.Makati@stellenbosch.gov.za

• DEVELOPMENT PLANNING
• Geographic Information Systems (GIS)
• Local Economic Development
• Heritage
• Spatial Planning
• DEVELOPMENT MANAGEMENT
• Land-Use Management
• Building Development Management
• HUMAN SETTLEMENTS
• New Housing
• Informal Settlements
• Housing Administration