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TThere are art galleries and museums throughout South Africa. Spend time in a busy city like Johannesburg and you’ll find sanctuary in the quiet rooms of Everard Read. Pass through a small town and you’re sure to stumble upon at least one quaint museum.
Make sure you visit the Johannesburg Art Gallery (JAG), where you’ll find everything from Picasso to the works of some of South Africa’s most prominent artists. Learn more about legends such as Gerard Sekoto, who is considered a pioneer of urban black art.
If you’re in Cape Town, Zeitz MOCCA is the largest contemporary art gallery in Africa. It’s located in a grain silo and houses some of the continent’s most intriguing contemporary art.
Many of South Africa’s museums are housed in prestigious historical buildings. You’ll also find them on university campuses, in cultural villages and hidden away in old houses. Even cave walls protect ancient rock art.
If you’re feeling spoilt for choice, the Cradle of Humankind is a good place to start. A trip to the Maropeng Visitor Centre is the perfect family outing. Learn more about our oldest ancestors or go on an adventure through the Sterkfontein caves.
South Africa’s turbulent history is well documented throughout the country. If you’re in Johannesburg, make sure you visit the Apartheid Museum and the former prison complex at Constitution Hill. In Soweto, you’ll find the Hector Pieterson Memorial and Museum. The Red Location Museum outside Port Elizabeth is also well worth a visit.
Did You Know?
TTravel tips & planning info
Who to contact
The South African Department of Arts and Culture
Tel: +27 (12) 441 3000
Everard Read Gallery
Tel: +27 (0)11 788 4805
JAG
Tel: +27 (0)10 594 5544
Zeitz MOCCA
Tel: +27 (0)87 350 4777
Email: info@zeitzmocaa.museum
Maropeng
Tel: +27 (0)14 577 9000
Constitution Hill
Tel: +27 11 381 3100
Email: info@constitutionhill.org.za
What to pack
Some art galleries and museums don’t permit the use of cameras, but bring one along just in case.
Around the area
When you’ve had your fill of contemporary art at Zeitz MOCCA in Cape Town, head to the Bay Harbour Market in Hout Bay to browse some arts and crafts.
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