If you want to appreciate the banal evil of apartheid and the astounding transition to democracy Constitution Hill cannot be missed. It is a painful and haunting visit, particularly if you are a South African for whom these memories are real and visceral. The Number 4 prison complex underlines the cruelty of apartheid while the Constitutional Court celebrates exactly the opposite, movingly built by bricks from the former awaiting trial complex. The ideas of constitutionalism and transparency are celebrated in the architecture and ethos of the place, a much-needed counterpoint to the horrors down the way. The place reminds you of what once made South Africa a disgrace - and also of the hope that embodies what it has now become. Constitutional Hill is a place of memories and reminders of what we aspire to be.
One of my favourite museums. The new app is great. A must visit when doing a city trip to Johannesburg.
My guide on the 2 hour tour was Nthabiseng. She was so amazing. I cannot begin to adequately express how patient, informative and engaging she was. She encouraged, entertained and welcomed all debates and theoretical discussions from us as the tourists.
The museum is interactive and very well orchestrated.
This is one place that is both historical and fun.
The activities range from a tour of the women jail where you learn about phenomenal female leaders who played a huge role in South Africa.
You will also get to explore the mail jail where you get to find yourself in an emotional but educative space that allows you to(in a light manner) experience the racial segregation in prisons and get to learn about the bad treatment and humiliation of blacks.
The place also has a great garden with information hanging around. The staff is helpful and great.
On the premises there's also the constitutional court which you can get to explore and learn more about it when you take a tour
The place does from time to time host really great events that you can be part of and its a good place to visit with families and friends
South Africa's beautiful, modern and inclusive constitutional court represents our bright and hopeful future. It contrasts grimly with the old, Victorian style prisons (a glimpse into the cruel past) built on the same site.
A very worthwhile place to visit, and you can get there easily on the Red Bus tour which leaves from Rosebank. I'd recommend taking one of the guided tours (find out beforehand what time they start).
Amazing experience. The guide was great, and it was really moving to learn more about the history of the area. I highly recommend this visit.
Very rich history here. The sort of how the courts were build just next tot the prison using the same exact bricks that built the prison. They did this to show people that the past can be used as a building block to the future. They also did this to remind people that in future hey will not allow South Africans to go back to the same place they were in. I love the African look and few inside the courts and the amazing gigantic door. The cells have a rich history as well and it’s definitely one place I highly suggest and advice you visit if you Tour South Africa.
To get a glimpse of South Africa's turbulent past and its extraordinary transition to democracy. It exceeded my expectations. Tour was well guided and very informative. Every South African should at least take time out to see this amazing heritage site.
If you haven't visited Constitutional Hill yet you absolutely must. The museum is one of a kind and has the perfect combination of old and new exhibits. The old structure and parts of the prison are still there and the court itself is easily accessible. I highly recommend getting one of the tour guides to take you around as there's a long and complex but fascinating history behind it.
I have been here with a group of school children and it is a fantastic and thought-provoking trip into our history. The constitutional court was my best part as there is so much hidden in the architecture. I would definitely recommend this, although I wouldn't take my own kids (aged 8 and 6) until they are a little older.
There is a large space for parking and is very easy to access.
One of the cleanest places I have ever been
Great historical landmark to learn more about our country! Also home to the amazing Play Africa, which I volunteer for, they create super fun activities and creative ways to play for children.
This is a key place for South African history. It very enlightening about our past and the current. It is a place where plenty art exhibits are being held lately. I have been to a few night and day markets where you can find arts and crafts. A great place to visit to learn more our history.
Loved the sentiment behind the construction of the constitutional court. A must do for all. Understand the past, to appreciate the present and future
Cool historical site. It's an interesting place, you get to learn some things which you won't get from documentaries about SA history. I recommend a tour inside this place.