Observatory is one of the oldest settlement areas of the Cape. A map dated 1660 details a few of the first properties along the Liesbeek River. The Dutch, English and French settlers introduced a number of outstanding architectural examples of European influence to Observatory. The Royal Observatory, Valkenburg, River Club, Westoe, Wrench House, Bergvliet, Oude Molen, Bloemendal, Coornhoop remain beautifully preserved as private residences or belong to institutions. Others - Malta, Varsche Drift, Reezicht, Coornhoops Barn and the site of Oude Molen Over the years Observatory has lost a number of heritage buildings due to neglect and it is becoming increasingly important to raise awareness in our community as a counter to the ever increasing need for densification and development of the inner city of Cape Town. In 2008 Observatory was proclaimed a “ Heritage Protected Overlay Zone” (HPOZ) and an aim of Art Thursdays in OBZ is to raise awareness on the value of heritage to preserve it for future generations. Today, Observatory remains Cape Town’s most unique and diverse suburb. Lower Main Road forms the hub of village life and is becoming a food and entertainment destination for Cape Town, and the charm of narrow streets and low-scale Victorian ambience are unique. The demographic of Observatory is as varied as the type of people who gravitate to this boho-centric hood. Many residents have been in Observatory for “years”, and consist of artists, authors, artisans, politicians and creatives who congregate in Observatory. It is also destination of students due to proximity to University of Cape Town and Groote Schuur Hospital, and more recently it continues to attract the interest of professionals, students and institutions. The events planned for each first Thursday of the month will set out to map participating venues that have become part of the “ART Thursdays in OBZ” footprint. These venues will host solo art exhibitions, acoustic music, and hand made goods, in fact anything to bring the foot print of art lovers into our village. ART Thursdays in OBZ will be scheduled for every first Thursday of month. Would like to include as many venues as possible, if you would like to sign up to become part of this initiative, it would be fantastic to have your organisation listed as part of this initiative in OBZ. Want to Sign up? Contact Barbara Langridge Mobile 076 996 706