Red Ox Monument - Riebeek-Kasteel, Western Cape
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The red ox on the square in Riebeek Kasteel, with its creator, Stoffel Basson. (Image adapted). © Weskus Heritage![]()
According to local lore, this monument marks the place where a red ox belonging to the Griqua people was shot and eaten by the Voortrekkers during their early settlements. (Image adapted). © The Heritage Portal
Red Ox Monument - Riebeek-Kasteel, Western Cape
In 1938 the Red Ox Monument was erected in the Riebeek-Kasteel village square, in the Western Cape of South Africa to honour all the brave oxen during the Great Trek. From 1835 onwards, 12 000 Dutch-speaking colonists started moving from the coast of South Africa to the interior. This migration became known as The Great Trek. Most families who took part in this migration had two or three wagons which moved alongside each other, and each of them was usually pulled by a span of 16 oxen. The Wagons were heavily laden with all their household effects and tools and had to travel over mountains and cross rivers. Many of the oxen lost their lives during this migration which lasted for over 3 years.
This monument marks the place where, according to local lore, a red ox belonging to the Griqua people was shot and eaten by the Voortrekkers during their early settlements. The incident symbolized the encounters and often fraught relations between indigenous groups and European settlers moving deeper into Southern Africa’s interior during the 18th and 19th centuries.
The Red Ox Monument serves as a reminder of Riebeek-Kasteel’s complex and layered history. The site reflects the deep roots of colonial expansion and indigenous presence in the area and has become a point of reflection on heritage and cultural memory within the broader Swartland region. Visitors often see the monument as part of exploring the historic town of Riebeek-Kasteel, which is known for its charm, vineyards, and picturesque setting.
Monument location: -33.38379995438145, 18.89557502041451
Accommodation Near Red Ox Monument - Riebeek-Kasteel, Western Cape
The Milkshed
Self Catering House, Cottage, Chalet Accommodation in Tulbagh
21.4km from Red Ox Monument - Riebeek-Kasteel, Western CapeThe Milkshed is a spacious self catering cottage and can accommodate 7 adults with comfort and ease.There are three double en-suite bedrooms, two with bath and shower facilities and the third a bath only. Situated in Tulbagh, Western Cape. …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Big Sky Villa
Self Catering House, Cottage, Chalet Accommodation in Tulbagh
26.8km from Red Ox Monument - Riebeek-Kasteel, Western CapeBig Sky Villa is situated in the heart of Tulbagh town. Walking distance from the Central Business District. Tulbagh is famous for its historic Church Street, breathtaking scenery, wine and olive farms as well as wedding venues. …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Eikelaan Farm Cottages
Self Catering House, Cottage, Chalet Accommodation in Tulbagh
27km from Red Ox Monument - Riebeek-Kasteel, Western CapeEikelaan Farm Cottage. On offer at this neat working farm with wheat, vines, olives, sheep and cattle are 3 luxury self-catering cottages all fronted by an open vista of green fields merging into blue mountains - an appealing contrast of the soft... …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Zonnevanger Guest House
Bed & Breakfast Accommodation in Paarl
28.7km from Red Ox Monument - Riebeek-Kasteel, Western CapeTreat yourself to a night in a luxuriously decorated room within a beautiful idyllic garden setting in the Cape Winelands. The guesthouse is surrounded by romantic Lavender Fields and mountains-meet-vineyard-themed outdoor scenery. …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Welbedacht Game & Nature Reserve
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29.6km from Red Ox Monument - Riebeek-Kasteel, Western CapeWelbedacht Game & Nature Reserve offers a stunning retreat in the countryside. The equipped self catering cottages have shady verandas with mountain water plunge pools, log fireplaces and braai places as well as fresh linen and towels and a supply of fire …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
