Stadsaal

The Stadtsaal (Stadsaal) caves are a series of inter-leading caves in the Cederberg Wilderness area. ‘Stadsaal’ means city hall in Afrikaans, which seems like a rather strange association with a natural cave network. The name was unofficially given to the cave after the National Party’s head honchos held secret meetings there just before coming to power in South Africa in 1948. Graffiti, still visible on  the walls, bears the name of Dr Malan and a couple of his verkrampte mates who went on to cause total chaos and strip human dignity from millions by introducing apartheid to the country. 

Long before that blot on history, the !Xam lived peacefully in the Cederberg for over 500 000 years and many rock walls in the surrounding area have numerous examples of their art. The !Xam stopped painting about 200 years ago, after being rudely interrupted by the arrival of European colonialists. The rock art is now protected from ruffians, who seem unable to resist expressing undying love for their future ex with a sharpie.  Seems all of mankind loves a wall.

The area is safeguarded by Cape Nature and a gate bars entrance to the caves. Day visitor permits can be bought from a number of venues around the nature reserve, which will give you the combination of the gate lock and entrance to the reserve. Not so fast though if you’re thinking of filming there – permits are available but there is a bit of a process involved and a number of strict protocols to follow, especially when it comes to protecting the surrounding areas from heavy-footed, equipment wielding crew and flower-picking art lovelies. And no, you may also not rearrange the rocks to make them look prettier for the shot.

A great place to film, with almost otherworldly landscapes filled with eroded rock formations that change colour with the light, throughout the day. One of our favourites.