Museum sights in Western Namibia
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Woermannhaus
From the shore, the delightful German-style Woermannhaus stands out above surrounding buildings - you'd be forgiven for assuming it's the town hall. In fact, it was designed by Friedrich Höft, and built in 1905 as the main offices of the Damara & Namaqua Trading Company. In 1909 however, it was taken over by the Woermann & Brock Trading Company, which supplied the current name. In the 1920s, it was used as a school dormitory, and later served as a merchant sailors' hostel.
It eventually fell into disrepair, but was declared a national monument and restored in 1976. For years, the prominent Damara tower (formerly a water tower) of the Woermannhaus provided a landmark for…
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Swakopmund Museum
When ill winds blow, head for the Swakopmund Museum , at the foot of the lighthouse, where you can hole up and learn about the town history. The museum occupies the site of the old harbour warehouse, which was destroyed in 1914 by a 'lucky' shot from a British warship.
Displays include exhibits on Namibia's history and ethnology, including information on local flora and fauna. Especially good is the display on the !nara melon, a fruit which was vital to the early Khoikhoi people of the Namib region. It also harbours a reconstructed colonial home interior, Emil Kiewittand's apothecary shop and an informative display on the Rössing Mine. Military buffs will appreciate the…
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Swakopmund Military Museum
For years, the prominent Damara tower (formerly a water tower) of the Woermannhaus provided a landmark for ships at sea as well as for traders arriving by ox wagon from the interior. It now affords a splendid panorama, and houses the Swakopmund Military Museum and a gallery of historic paintings. You can pay the admission and pick up a key at the library.
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Kristall Galerie
The architecturally astute Kristall Galerie features some of the planet's most incredible crystal formations, including the largest quartz crystal that has ever been found. The adjacent shop sells lovely mineral samples, crystal jewellery, and intriguing plates, cups and wine glasses that are carved from the local stone.
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