The Apartheid Museum is a must-visit when you're in Johannesburg. Opened in 2001, it's the world's pre-eminent museum on South Africa's dark 20th century history dominated by the racist apartheid system.
It tells the story of how non-white South Africans were forced to live in separate nations. It also showcases countless photographs, videos, artefacts and text panels that remind us of the cruel realities of the country's dark past.
1. Get There Early
If you’re an avid history buff and want to see what makes South Africa unique, a trip to the Apartheid Museum is a must. First opened in 2001, it’s an excellent place to learn about the oppressive racial segregation of South Africa and its struggle for freedom.
This one-of-a-kind exhibition hall uses dramatic photographs, videos, press clips, personal artefacts and moving anecdotes to illustrate life under apartheid in the 1960s and its journey to democracy. The infamous Rivonia trial of 1963-1964 is also covered. It’s an important part of South Africa’s history and this exhibit pays tribute to those who sacrificed for freedom.
2. Listen to a Guide
During your guided tour, you’ll get the chance to experience South Africa’s history firsthand. From a visit to the evocative and unflinching Apartheid Museum to witness trials by the nation’s Truth and Reconciliation Commission on Constitution Hill, your guide will share their passion for the social, political and cultural forces that shaped modern-day South Africa.
The museum opened in 2001 and is acknowledged as the world’s pre-eminent museum dealing with 20th century South Africa. It illustrates the epic story of apartheid through provocative film footage, photographs, text panels and artefacts.
3. Become an Activist
The Apartheid Museum, tucked away in a corner of the gold reef City complex near Johannesburg’s Central business district, is the place to go for an interactive experience centered around South Africa’s colorful history. Take a guided tour, watch a movie, or simply read the exhibits to your heart’s content.
A trip to this evocative and unflinching site will leave you with a newfound respect for the human spirit. It’s also an opportunity to reminisce about the old days, as well as celebrate the upcoming Golden Jubilee of Nelson Mandela, South Africa’s legendary statesman. The most impressive thing about the museum is that it’s open to the public at large.
4. Watch the Documentaries
The museum is a moving experience that shows the reality of racial segregation in South Africa. Visitors enter through a ticket window and are randomly assigned races, then told to enter through separate turnstiles (one for whites, the other for non-whites).
Countless photographs, video clips, artefacts and text panels tell tragic stories that take you behind apartheid. As you watch the film footage, listen to the voices of non-white South Africans who were discriminated against, you'll understand why this is such an important part of our country's history.
5. Read the Books
The Apartheid Museum is a must-see for anyone interested in learning about the history of South Africa. Opened in 2001, this powerful museum traces the rise and fall of the racist system that ruled South Africa for decades.
A number of exhibits tell the story of Apartheid through art, film and text panels. From racial segregation to violence, homelands and 'total onslaught' - the final stage of white-controlled apartheid - this museum is a must for anyone looking to understand the country’s past and learn from its people.
6. Take a Walk
The Apartheid Museum is a powerful museum that focuses on the racial segregation of South Africa for more than 50 years. It is a must-visit attraction for anyone who wants to understand the country’s history and its current state of affairs.
The museum features a number of exhibition areas, each telling a tragic story about discrimination and the fight for equality. Visitors are encouraged to leave a stone on the pile of stones on the left side, symbolising their commitment to end discrimination.
The Apartheid Museum is a 10-minute drive from downtown Johannesburg. It is best reached by car or taxi.
