About Woermannhaus
Today, you can tour the Woermannhaus as it has been restored and now has an art centre, public library, and museum. For breathtaking sweeping views of Swakopmund and the Atlantic Ocean, you can climb up the tower. Discover the history of early European settlers through the historical displays and objects inside.
You can view both European and traditional Namibian artwork on the first floor. The Woermannhaus combines native influences with German colonial architecture. It’s a must-see for history fans and anyone wanting to learn about Swakopmund's interesting history. You can take in the scenery, admire the characteristic German-style façade, look around the displays, and discover Namibia's historical significance.
Woermannhaus Highlights
• Step into the Woermannhaus and admire this striking German colonial building towering over Swakopmund.
• Ascend the Damara Tower to take in the stunning panorama of the village streets, the Atlantic Ocean, and the gently sloping dunes below.
• Step into the traders’ former wood-panelled offices, now elegantly restored with vintage furnishings and historic maps, preserving their timeless charm.
• Explore Namibian artworks that combine traditional African and European styles by visiting the Swakopmund Arts Association.
• Wander the quiet corridors of the public library and take in the serene ambience of this ancient colonial site.
How To Reach Woermannhaus
- By Foot: You can reach Woermannhaus on Bismarck Street via Tobias Hainyeko in 2 minutes as it is only 650 metres away from the Swakopmund city centre.
Best Time To Visit Woermannhaus
The Woermannhaus in Swakopmund is open year-round, so you can visit at any time.
- Best day in the week: For a more peaceful experience, weekdays are the best, as weekends tend to get crowded.
- The best time of the day: Morning is the ideal time for exploring the historical exhibits inside before the afternoon crowds arrive.
Woermannhaus Other Essential Information
- For easy access to the exhibitions and to avoid crowds, arrive early in the morning.
- For your walk up the Damara Tower and exploration of its history, make sure to wear comfortable shoes.
- Get your camera so you can capture the expansive views and architectural details from the Damara Tower.
- To protect the exhibits' condition, abide by the museum's guidelines and avoid touching them.
- Avoid the crowds by going during the week when it is less busy.
- Remember to visit the Swakopmund Arts Association to see both local and international artwork.
Admire the panoramic views
For a breathtaking perspective of Swakopmund and the Atlantic coast, ascend the Damara Tower. From here, you can see the arid desert alongside the ocean, a view that has helped ships navigate for more than a hundred years. The tower, which was formerly a beacon, now provides an ideal viewpoint for admiring the town's beauty and history.
Explore the Museum and Art Center
Discover a combination of European and Namibian history when you enter the Woermannhaus. The museum displays a vast array of items, images, and narratives related to Swakopmund's colonial history. On the first floor, the art centre shows traditional Namibian art next to modern European pieces, allowing you to see the area's artistic history.