Experience Madiba’s Legacy of Unity and Freedom

In the lead-up to Heritage Day on 24 September and celebrating 30 years of freedom, Sanctuary Mandela invites guests to explore the Nelson Mandela Centre of Memory, a comprehensive archive of South African history and culture.

“This Heritage Month, we honour Tata Madiba and his legacy of 30 years of South Africa’s democracy, reflecting on our heritage and the reconciliation and unity he championed,” says Vincent Mabaso, General Manager of Sanctuary Mandela.

The Centre is just a short stroll from Sanctuary Mandela, the statesman’s former home from 1992 to 1998 in Houghton, Johannesburg. It served as his base during the CODESA negotiations and his tenure as South Africa’s first democratically elected president.

The permanent exhibition, “The Life and Times of Nelson Mandela,” features personal artefacts, letters from his prison days, photographs, and his Nobel Peace Prize. Visitors can step into his office, where he worked from 2002 to 2010, creating a connection to the man behind the public figure.

The Centre also houses the “Mandela: A Life’s Journey” series by Free State painter John Meyer, who used a blend of acrylic and sand to depict moments from Mandela’s childhood in the Transkei to his days as a young boxer. Limited edition prints of these paintings also adorn the walls at Sanctuary Mandela.

After visiting the Centre, guests can dine at Sanctuary Mandela’s Insights Restaurant, founded by his chef, Xoliswa Ndoyiya. The menu is a tribute to Madiba’s favourite dishes. Insights Restaurant is also an ideal setting for companies’ end-of-year functions. The serene atmosphere provides a meaningful space for gatherings, embodying unity and the spirit of giving back.

 

Heritage Month is ideal for visiting the Nelson Mandela Centre of Memory. As South Africa celebrates its cultural diversity during Heritage Month, the Centre serves as a reminder of Mandela’s influence in shaping the nation.

View the Collection on Google Arts & Culture


Artefacts from the Nelson Mandela Centre of Memory are also available on Google Arts & Culture to view digitally. The Online Archive contains photos, videos, letters, and personal documents, offering global access to Mandela’s legacy. Users can interactively explore these artefacts, read transcripts, and uncover background information about Madiba. View the collection at https://artsandculture.google.com/partner/nelson-mandela-centre-of-memory.

For More Information and Bookings:
Entry to the permanent exhibition is free, but booking a tour in advance through the online booking facility is advisable. Call ahead to make arrangements for your visit. Visit https://www.nelsonmandela.org

Guests can book a stay at Sanctuary Mandela through the official website, where they will find information about accommodation, special packages, and upcoming events. The hotel features nine rooms, each reflecting different aspects of Mandela’s life, with various amenities to ensure a comfortable stay. Visit https://www.sanctuarymandela.com for more information.