Lion’s Head Cannons
The two cannons, situated at Lion’s Head overlooking Cape Town and the Atlantic Seaboard, provides 360-degree views – making them both strategic and visually prominent. They are the only one of their kind that can be attributed to Gordon and Stanley. They have been a pair since casted in England in the period of 1790-1820. They bear the mark of the Crest of King George III on the first reinforce and GS on the trunnion end for the foundry of Gordon and Stanley. The two guns were found abandoned behind the Sea Point Hall in 1957 and through research conducted, both guns were removed from their original site in November 1907 on the orders of the Municipality of Sea Point and Green Point. The guns were mounted on wooden carriages in front of the Municipal offices. Over time, these wooden carriages were subjected to rot, and the guns were moved to one side where they lay and corroded. It was not until 1961 that the Municipality constructed the concrete carriages and built the look-out point on which they now stand on Lion’s Head.
The present site was selected for its excellent view in all directions, commemorating South Africa’s military and colonial history, serving as a tangible reminder of coastal defence and offering educational and heritage value to visitors.
GPS Waypoints: 33°55'48.9"S 18°23'37.7"E