Heritage Month Escapes: Uncovering Cultural Gems in South Africa

September is Heritage Month in South Africa and with a country so rich in history, heritage, culture and traditional cuisine, it’s important for us to recognise, experience and honour the beautiful, diverse tapestry of our Rainbow Nation.

With this in mind, we uncover some cultural gems for you to discover this Heritage Month (and beyond)!

!Khwa ttu San Heritage Centre (West Coast, Western Cape)

**Image courtesy of:** **!Khwattu via Facebook**

The West Coast has many cultural, history-focused gems to unearth but one of the most special ones is !Khwa ttu.

Not only does !Khwa ttu offer amazing accommodation, delicious food and outdoor adventure (including hiking, walking and MTB cycling) but it also has its very own San Heritage Centre.

Begin by learning about the First People, as you explore two rooms wherein San origin stories, art, archaeological- and genetic-findings can be found.

Then, reflect on the effects of colonisation when you visit the colonial farm building, which documents San history from the difficult days of colonisation up to more contemporary community displays.

Finally, learn the Way of the San in an immersive building that takes you into the heart of San Kalahari life. You will learn all about some of the world’s last hunter-gatherers.

For more on pricing, tours and other San Heritage Centre details, please see here.

Website: https://www.khwattu.org

Contact: +27 (022) 492 2998, info@khwattu.org

Image courtesy of: !Khwattu via Facebook

Juma Masjid Mosque (Durban, KZN)

In Durban central, on the corner of Denis Hurley and Dr Yusuf Dadoo Streets, you find the exquisite Juma Masjid Mosque. This is the largest mosque in the Southern hemisphere and indeed, a magnificent Durban attraction.

Towering over a thriving commercial area, this marble place of worship is tranquil, elegant and beautiful beyond words.

Around the mosque, in and around Grey Street, you’ll find several Indian food outlets (most of which offer a Durban food favourite, the bunny chow, which consists of a hollowed out bread loaf filled with delicious, hot curry).

When you visit Durban, be sure to soak up the rich culture and history of both this mosque and its interesting surrounds.

Website: https://visitdurban.travel

Freedom Park (Pretoria, Gauteng)

Image courtesy of: Freedom Park (SA) via Facebook

Situated in Pretoria, Freedom Park is an important cultural institution that houses a museum and memorial.

It is dedicated to celebrating South Africa’s heritage; understanding the country’s different experiences and symbols; and above all, honouring all those who contributed to and fought for South Africa’s liberation.

Freedom Park takes visitors right from the dawn of humanity, through our colonial- and-apartheid history and up to the nation’s post-apartheid present.

With both virtual- and physical-tours (choose from guided or self-guided), you can truly immerse yourself in all the history and heritage that Freedom Park showcases.

For more information on the Freedom Park cultural precinct, please see here.

Website: https://www.freedompark.co.za

Contact: +27 (012) 336 4020, webmaster@freedompark.co.za

South African Jewish Museum (Cape Town, South Africa)

Image courtesy of: South African Jewish Museum via Facebook

Another truly memorable historical attraction to explore this Heritage Month is the South African Jewish Museum.

Visit this unique, fascinating museum (built as an extension to South Africa’s oldest synagogue) and learn all about the earliest roots of South African Jewry in Eastern Europe and beyond.

For full details on the museum, exhibitions and more, please see here.

Website: https://www.sajewishmuseum.co.za

Contact: +27 (021) 465 1546

These are just some of the unique cultural gems to discover across South Africa this Heritage Month!

Some other cultural gems include: