Discover the Old Masters at Cape Town’s Old Town House

Step off the bustling Greenmarket Square and into a world of 17th-century masterpieces. Housed inside one of Cape Town's oldest public buildings, the Michaelis Collection brings together an extraordinary selection of Dutch and Flemish paintings, including works by Frans Hals, Jan Steen and Anthony van Dyck. Wander through elegant historic rooms filled with portraits, landscapes and richly detailed scenes of everyday life, discovering the artistry of Europe's Golden Age. The recently reimagined exhibitions also place these historic works alongside modern South African art, creating unexpected conversations across centuries. It's a fascinating little cultural escape hiding in the heart of the city.

BEFORE YOU GO
The Old Town House reopened following restoration work and is now welcoming visitors again. Iziko currently lists opening hours as Monday to Saturday, 9am–5pm, although Saturday winter hours may be shorter. Allow approximately 45–60 minutes to explore the collection and the historic building, which dates back to 1755 and once served as Cape Town's City Hall. The current Reflections exhibitions include Dutch and Flemish masterpieces, Japanese woodcuts and contemporary South African artworks. Check the museum's website for updated opening hours and exhibitions before visiting.