Donkin Reserve, Pyramid, and Lighthouse

About Donkin Reserve, Pyramid, and Lighthouse

The Donkin Reserve, Pyramid, and Lighthouse is one of the most culturally significant historical landmarks in Gqeberha (formerly Port Elizabeth). Perched on a hill overlooking the city centre and Algoa Bay, this four-hectare public park blends British colonial heritage with contemporary South African art.

The Donkin Pyramid (1820)

Purpose: Erected by Sir Rufane Donkin (Acting Governor of the Cape Colony) as a memorial to his late wife, Lady Elizabeth Donkin.

City Origin: Sir Rufane named the entire town "Port Elizabeth" in her honour.

Dimensions: A 10-metre-tall stone pyramid with a base measuring 8x8 metres.

Inscription: Features a moving plaque stating: "In memory of one of the most perfect of human beings, who has given her name to the Town below."

The Donkin Lighthouse (1861)

History: Built 41 years after the pyramid to guide ships safely into Algoa Bay.

Conservation: The local harbour master initially wanted to tear down the pyramid to use its stones for the lighthouse. Public fury blocked this, forcing them to build the tower side-by-side.

The Donkin Memorial Pyramid and the adjacent lighthouse were officially proclaimed as National Monuments in 1938 by the South African Historical Monuments Commission.