Cape Town - Company Gardens   The Company Garden is better known to most people as “The Gardens”. The surrounding area, which is in the center of Cape Town, is named after the Company Garden and is called “Gardens”.   In 1652, Jan van Riebeeck built this garden as a vegetable plantation for the Dutch sailors who were on their way to Asia. Today, the Company Garden functions as a peaceful oasis in midst of an active Cape Town.   The Company Garden used to be 18 hectares in size, but today has shrunk to about 5.5 hectares due to land being utilised by the surrounding businesses. There are a wide variety of trees, flowers, little pools and even cafes that offer refreshments.   At one end of the Company Garden you will find the South African National Gallery, the South African Museum, and the States Archive. The “Gardens - Restaurant” in Adderley Street offers delicious food and drink.   The historical Greenmarket Square that makes up one part of the business sector of Cape Town lies in the heart of the city. This square lies just around the corner from a selection of museums, arts and crafts markets, and other interesting sights-to-see. Even the V&A Waterfront with its fantastic shopping center, cafes and restaurants is in walking distance.   Since 1710, the market exists between Whale Street and Longmarket Street. Nowadays, one can find the market every day with its art, clothing, jewelry and other interesting items for sale.