Historical sites to visit in Gauteng this Heritage Day
Make your Heritage Day celebration count by visiting these historical sites in Gauteng and learning more about the people, places and stories that shaped South Africa.
Every year on 24 September, South Africans celebrate Heritage Day. One of the best ways to mark the occasion is by visiting historical sites across the province to learn more about our shared roots.
If you find yourself in and around Gauteng on Heritage Day, we’ve put together a list of places you can visit where you will not only have fun but also learn about our history.
Constitution Hill
Constitution Hill is a remarkable site to visit if you want to learn more about South Africa’s history and the journey towards the rights and freedoms we have today.
The 95,000-square-metre heritage precinct includes the former prison complex, where political prisoners, including Nelson Mandela and Winnie Madikizela-Mandela, were held.
This Heritage Day, Constitution Hill is offering free entry for South Africans.
apartheid Museum
The Apartheid Museum is another great place to visit this Heritage Day.
Opened in 2001, the museum takes visitors through South Africa’s apartheid history, using photographs, film footage, personal stories and exhibitions to tell the story of the country's journey to democracy. As you make your way through the museum, you’ll get to learn more about the struggles South Africans faced and the people who played a role in the fight for freedom.
The museum is also offering free entry to all South Africans on Thursday, 24 September.
Mandela House
If you're heading to Soweto, make sure Mandela House is on your list.
The historical site, located on the famous Vilakazi Street, gives visitors an opportunity to learn more about Nelson Mandela's life and legacy and the years he spent living in Soweto. You can walk along the same famous street that was once home to two Nobel Peace Prize winners, Nelson Mandela and Desmond Tutu.
The vibrant street also has plenty of street vendors selling traditional food and African jewellery. There is also plenty of entertainment which can be enjoyed by the whole family.
Voortrekker Monument
If you're in Pretoria, the Voortrekker Monument is another heritage site worth exploring. The monument and its surrounding heritage precinct offer visitors an opportunity to learn more about the history and culture associated with the Afrikaner community.
On Heritage Day, the site is also hosting Erfenisfees, bringing together heritage, culture, music and entertainment for visitors.
Expect performances from renowned artists such as Elvis Blue and Eloff.
It is a family-friendly way to spend the public holiday.
Whether you're looking for a day filled with history, culture or simply want to explore more of Gauteng, Heritage Day is a great opportunity to get out and discover some of the places that tell the story of where we come from.
After all, our heritage is not only about where we’ve been, but also about the stories and experiences that continue to shape who we are today.
For Heritage Day events happening in and around Gauteng, click here.
Listen to Jacaranda FM:
- 94.2
- Jacaranda FM App
- http://jacarandafm.com
- DStv 858/ OpenView 602
Follow us on social media: