Cape Town.

This pentagonal fort now stands inland from the harbour it once guarded. Visit for its military and colonial history, and for a clear example of how land reclamation changed Cape Town’s shoreline.

The Castle of Good Hope makes the old coastline tangible: it was built beside Table Bay, but later harbour works left it near the city centre. Its star-shaped walls and military museum give more to examine than a quick exterior photograph.

• Pentagonal fortifications give the Castle its star-like plan.
• The military museum explores the site’s history.
• Its inland position shows how far the bay’s edge has shifted.

Allow time to walk the fort rather than viewing only the gate.

Check the Castle’s official visitor information before setting out, as published times differ.