How the Royal won its crown
By Frank Chemaly
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Durban - The Royal Hotel has stood at the centre of Durban for more than 175 years and has been an integral part of the city throughout its long and colourful history.
Opening up as the first hostelry in Durban in 1845, built on land bought by the brother of a British sea captain, the original building was a far cry from the elegant hotel of today, but it served its purpose of providing hospitality and shelter to travellers.
On December 12, 1845, Durbanâs first hotel announced itself open as McDonaldâs Commercial Hotel. It was subsequently renamed the Masonic.