Joburg is not just South Africa’s economic powerhouse, but also a treasure trove of cultural wealth. The city boasts a variety of museums that cater to all interests, from art and history to apartheid, mining, and even medical history. Here’s a guide to some of the most intriguing museums in Johannesburg, where history and heritage meet contemporary culture. Visit a museum today!
Apartheid Museum
Imagine stepping into a time capsule that takes you back to one of the most intensely charged chapters of South African history. The Apartheid Museum, located just south of the city centre, does just that. With its provocative exhibits, the location offers a profound insight into the Apartheid era through life-like scenes and actual artifacts, including the ominous grey police vans used during that period. It’s a sobering reminder of the struggles and ultimately the triumph of human spirit and freedom.
Wits Art Museum
In the vibrant student suburb of Braamfontein, the Wits Art Museum, often referred to as WAM, is home to an impressive collection of African art. It includes traditional artifacts and contemporary works that tell the story of African art’s evolution. The museum’s modern design and interactive displays make it particularly appealing to younger visitors, blending education with aesthetic appreciation seamlessly.
Johannesburg Art Gallery
Nestled in Joubert Park, the Johannesburg Art Gallery is the largest gallery on the subcontinent, boasting over 9,000 works of art. Here, you can find everything from Dutch 17th-century paintings to pieces by South African contemporary artists. The gallery is particularly famous for its impressive collection of European art, making it a central point for cultural exchange and artistic dialogue.
Sci-Bono Discovery Centre
Perfect for families, the Sci-Bono Discovery Centre in the city’s vibrant Newtown district offers interactive exhibits focusing on science and technology. This hands-on museum is designed to spark curiosity and inspire future scientists and engineers with exhibits like a real-life hovercraft and the opportunity to simulate landing a spacecraft.
Origins Centre Museum
Origins Centre Museum‘s interactive exhibits take visitors on a special journey from Africa’s human origins to technology, art, culture, and symbolism. Explore the diverse southern African rock art traditions next. Contemporary art installations by famous South African artists depict these ancient masterworks and artists.
James Hall Museum of Transport
For those fascinated by the evolution of transportation, the James Hall Museum of Transport offers a nostalgic journey through the history of transport in South Africa. From horse-drawn carriages and steam trains to the iconic minibus taxis that ply the city’s roads today, the museum has it all. It’s a wonderful way to understand how transport has shaped Johannesburg’s social and economic landscape.
Lindfield Victorian House Museum
Step back into the late 19th century at the Lindfield Victorian House Museum in Auckland Park. This well-preserved residence is decked out with authentic Victorian-era furnishings and decorations. Guided tours are conducted by the house’s owner, dressed in period costume, which enhances the immersive experience. This museum offers a unique glimpse into the domestic life of Johannesburg’s early settlers.
DITSONG: Museums of South Africa
DITSONG: Museums of South Africa offers plenty of destinations if you’re looking for something interesting and educational to do with your family. Their museum portfolio includes the Museum of Natural History; the Museum of Military History; the Pioneer Museum; the Sammy Marks Museum; just to name a few. For a full list of their museums, click the button below to read more. There’s sure to be something to delight and catch your interest.
WITS Adler Museum
The WITS Adler Museum of Medicine preserves medical history and science. Since 1962, it has collected valuable medical artifacts, photographs, and journals. If you’re interested in Southern African medicine history, visit the Adler Museum. The museum has many fascinating displays about traditional, herbal, and alternative health practices. The Adler Museum delights medical students and the general public. A great place to bring the kids for edutainment during school breaks.
Maropeng – Cradle of Humankind
The birthplace of humanity, Maropeng – Cradle of Humankind, became a World Heritage Site in 1999. Why this place, of all places? It’s one of the world’s richest fossil sites. The Sterkfontein Caves contain fossils from over 4 million years ago. Second, the caves are amazing for their views, structures, and time travel vortex that will take you back to prehistoric Earth.
This fascinating, thrilling, and must-see destination should be visited at least once. Maropeng and the Sterkfontein Caves are near active scientific dig sites where researchers are digging, reconstructing, and studying humanity’s complex origin.
Absa Money Museum
Money has taken many forms, from salt and seashells to metal and animals. The Absa Money Museum is the only place in South Africa to find these and other numismatic items documenting money and banking history. This place dates to Johannesburg’s early trade. The dynamic displays include cowrie shells, Venetian glass beads, gold coins from sunken ships, token money, Van Riebeeck banknotes, and all South African coins.
Credo Mutwa Cultural Village
In the heart of Soweto, the Credo Mutwa Cultural Village is a museum-like outdoor exhibition of African artist and traditional healer Credo Mutwa’s stunning sculptures and buildings. His 1974–1986 sculpture collection contrasts African folklore and art with Westernization. Its unique approach to art and society attracts tourists seeking a more authentic experience and makes the village a Gauteng landmark.
Mandela House
Mandela House aims to be a top visitor attraction and a leading centre for preserving, presenting, and researching the Mandela Family legacy. It strives to provide visitors with a positive, efficient, and meaningful experience. We strive daily to create an environment of mutual respect, dignity, and reconciliation where visitors can experience President Nelson Mandela’s home and life. Every interaction between South Africans and visitors should end in respect, reconciliation, and tolerance.
Museum Africa
Founded in 1935 as the Africana Museum. It became Museum Africa in 1994 after evolving and expanding. With South Africa’s democratic transition, this transformation was crucial to the location’s history. Thus, it showed the nation’s renewed commitment to cultural exchange and diversity. The former market building houses Museum Africa in Newtown. The building is early 20th-century. The building reflects Johannesburg’s rich history as a commercial hub. Its architectural splendor complements its treasures.
