The Iconic Heritage Tunnel project at Pinnacle Point, located just outside the picturesque coastal town of Mossel Bay, embarked on its historic journey in August 2022. Spearheaded by the passionate Pinnacle Point Arts and Culture Association of Mossel Bay, this monumental mosaic project is poised to leave an indelible mark on South Africa’s cultural heritage.
With each meticulously crafted tile, the 92-panel mosaic artwork decorating the tunnel walls is destined to become one of the most captivating and expansive mosaic showpieces ever witnessed in the Southern Hemisphere. Stretching over an impressive 55 meters, the tunnel serves as a gateway to the renowned Eden Bay Beach, beckoning adventurers and history enthusiasts alike to tread its path and explore the Pinnacle Point caves.
On Heritage Day, 24th September 2022, Mayor Dirk Kotzé unveiled the first four panels of this monumental mosaic project. As the tunnel’s left and right walls metamorphose into a mesmerizing canvas, the story of Mossel Bay’s rich history unfolds before visitors’ eyes.
The left wall of the tunnel stands as a testament to Mossel Bay’s past, paying homage to its diverse cultural heritage and key historical milestones. Emblems of national unity, such as the South African flag and the iconic figure of Nelson Mandela, find their place amidst depictions of the esteemed clubhouse and golf course. Modern Mossel Bay emerges alongside the district’s storied past, the legacy of Bartolomeu Dias, the Koi San Culture, the enigmatic Pinnacle Point Caves, and the ancient land of Gondwana.
On the right wall, a captivating representation of the Marine Lift in the Mossel Bay area comes to life, celebrating the marine wonders that grace the region’s coastline. Sea life in all its splendor, pristine beaches, and majestic whales create an awe-inspiring symphony of art.
As the project progresses, the skilled hands of local artists and dedicated volunteers from the Pinnacle Point Estate, like Chrissie Olivier and Annemie Louw, continue to shape this masterpiece.
Currently, 50 panels stand as a testament to the tireless efforts invested in this cultural landmark. And yet, there remains a future work to be done, as the project looks ahead to completing the roof and floor, thereby culminating in a breathtaking tribute to the past and present of Mossel Bay.
The artistic brilliance of the tunnel’s mosaic acquires even greater significance due to its association with the Pinnacle Point Caves. These sacred caverns, bearing witness to the lives of Middle Stone Age people some 170,000 years ago, have been designated a Provincial Heritage Site. The tunnel serves as a symbolic pathway, connecting the modern world to the ancient realms of human existence, while underscoring the importance of preserving our collective heritage.
In the years to come, as visitors traverse the tunnel to Eden Bay Beach or embark on a quest to uncover the secrets of the Pinnacle Point caves, they will do so in the company of history, culture, and art entwined. The Iconic Heritage Tunnel project at Pinnacle Point stands not only as a testament to human ingenuity, but also as a timeless monument to the storied legacy of Mossel Bay and its enduring place in the tapestry of South Africa’s history.
