The Parliament Building & Gardens

The building is also known as Tintenpalast (Ink palace). It seats both Namibian Houses of Parliament of Namibia. The building was constructed in 1912 and inaugurated in 1913. Opposite the main building lie the Parliament Gardens. The most noticeable bronze statues are those of Hosea Kutako, Hendrik Samuel Witbooi and Rev Theophilus Hamutumbanga, who all played pivotal roles in the early struggle for Namibia's independance.

Additional Highlights & Visitor Tips:

• Architectural Style: Designed by German architect Gottlieb Redecker, the Tintenpalast blends neoclassical and Art Nouveau elements, featuring lofty Doric columns and an expansive central dome once covered in copper.

• Name Origin: “Ink Palace” earned its nickname from the original basement archive, where government records were stored in large iron cabinets—still visible today on a private tour.

• Statue Significance: Hosea Kutako: Revered Herero leader whose petitions to the League of Nations laid groundwork for self‑determination.- Hendrik Samuel Witbooi: Nama chief and early anti‑colonial strategist, honored for uniting disparate groups against German rule.- Rev Theophilus Hamutumbanga: Prominent Methodist minister who championed both spiritual and political freedoms.

• Parliament Gardens:- – Flora & Fauna: Stroll beneath age‑old fig and jacaranda trees; spot vervet monkeys and endemic birdlife such as the crimson‑breasted shrike.- – Memorial Plaques: Discover concealed plaques commemorating the first sitting of Namibia’s independent parliament in 1990.

• Guided Tour Perks:

  • Insider Access: Explore chambers not open to the public, including the Speaker’s gallery and original voting booths.

  • Historical Anecdotes: Our guide shares little‑known stories—like the time the dome’s copper cladding was donated by local merchants to speed up completion.

• Practical Info:

  • Opening Hours: 09:00–16:00 weekdays (closed on public holidays and during parliamentary sessions).

  • Entry: Free for small groups; larger tours by appointment via Meerkat Safaris.

  • Best Time to Visit: Early morning (09:00–11:00) to avoid midday heat and catch the light on the statues.

  • Photography: Allowed exterior shots; interior photography during guided tour only.

Book your half‑day Windhoek heritage tour with Meerkat Safaris to experience the Tintenpalast, its stirring gardens and statues, and uncover the untold stories of Namibia’s path to independence.

📞 +264 81 329 5790 | ✉️ info@meerkatsafaris.com