Cape Town

Southern Africa, South Africa
South Africa

People from Cape Town are called:

Male/General:

Capetonian

Pronunciation:

/keɪpˈtoʊniən/

Quick Facts

Population:
4,772,000 (2024 est.)
Country:
South Africa
Region:
Southern Africa

Explore Cape Town

Want to explore where Capetonians live? Here's the atlas that does it best:

National Geographic Atlas of the World

Highly detailed, stunning visuals

See more options

As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.

Etymology & Origin

The name Cape Town is derived from its location at the Cape of Good Hope, which was named Cabo da Boa Esperança by Portuguese explorer Bartolomeu Dias in 1488. Originally a victualling station for the Dutch East India Company (VOC), it was known as Kaapstad in Dutch. It is often called the "Mother City" (Moederstad) as it was the first permanent European settlement in South Africa, founded in 1652.

Notable People Associated with Cape Town

This place has been connected to many influential figures throughout history.

Politics & Leadership

Nelson Mandela

Mvezo, South Africa

Anti-apartheid revolutionary and first Black president of South Africa. Imprisoned for 27 years on Robben Island near Cape Town, he emerged to lead South Africa's peaceful transition to democracy and became a global symbol of reconciliation.

Nobel Peace PrizeFirst Black President of South AfricaAnti-Apartheid Icon
Desmond Tutu

Klerksdorp, South Africa

Anglican Archbishop Emeritus of Cape Town and Nobel Peace Prize laureate who fought against apartheid. He chaired the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, helping South Africa heal from its divided past.

Nobel Peace PrizeArchbishop of Cape TownTruth and Reconciliation Commission

Music & Entertainment

Charlize Theron

Benoni, South Africa

Academy Award-winning actress and producer who became one of Hollywood's highest-paid actresses. She has used her platform to advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and to fight against HIV/AIDS in South Africa.

Academy Award WinnerMonsterMad Max: Fury Road

About Cape Town

  • Legislative capital of South Africa and seat of Parliament.
  • Second-most populous city in South Africa after Johannesburg.
  • One of the world's most beautiful cities, situated between mountains and ocean.
  • Major tourist destination known for Table Mountain and wine regions.
  • Important cultural center and economic hub for the Western Cape province.

Test Your Knowledge

Challenge yourself with our demonym quizzes and see how many you can get right!

Take a Quiz →

More places in Southern Africa

Discover demonyms from other places in this region