Greenmarket Square | Attraction

Western Cape Attractions | Cape Town Attractions | Central Cape Town Attractions

Greenmarket Square, nestled in the heart of the Central Business District of Cape Town, has seen a vast mix of cultures pass over its ancient cobbles.

This area has served as a slave market, a fruit and vegetable market (hence the name Greenmarket Square) and in the late 50's as a popular parking lot.

It wasn't until the early 80's that Bob Hayward had the vision to transform the Square into a viable trading venue for the informal sector. These humble beginnings saw only a handful of traders brave the elements twice a week on a small section of the Square, but it was not long before it grew to become an extremely popular flea market for crafters to reap the rewards for all their efforts.


Within a few years it became necessary to expand the market to its present state as more and more people realised that Greenmarket Square offered a perfect opportunity to earn a living amidst the friendly, vibrant, cosmopolitan atmosphere, but also by buskers, drummers, jugglers and mime artists.

Due to the success of the flea market, other forms of business began to prosper, and today there is still an abundance of coffee shops, restaurants and hotels bordering on the Square, convenient for customers who need to relax after the rigors of shopping.

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