Event information
The Constitution Hill Precinct tells a very turbulent history, detailing the tumultuous journey towards South African democracy.
Its existence can be traced back to 1892 when the Old Fort was built under the Zuid Afrikaanse Republiek and functioned as a prison. Various buildings were added to the Fort complex, namely the Natives’ section and isolation cells known as Sections Four and Five, where black male prisoners were held, as well as a Women’s Prison and an Awaiting Trial building.
These buildings were notorious for the harsh treatment of prisoners: who ranged from common criminals to ordinary men and women who contravened colonial and apartheid legislation. Many political prisoners were also incarcerated at the Fort, including Nelson Mandela, Joe Slovo, Winnie Madikizela-Mandela, Mahatma Gandhi, and more.
Now, Constitution Hill has been transformed into a living museum, offering an informed and engaging experience related to Constitutionalism, Human Rights and Democracy. The museum offers a first-hand experience of the cells, including exhibitions and guided tours that aid historical understanding.
Permanent exhibitions include Nelson Mandela Exhibition: Prisoner in a Garden, an exhibition that documents the time that Mandela spent at Robben Island as well as the Old Fort, and Mahatma Gandhi – Prisoner of Conscience, an exhibition which commemorates the life of Gandhi and touches on his experiences while in prison.
Visitors can also view the Women's Prison and Number Four (Natives' Prison). The museum also hosts talks, book launches, workshops and other educational events.
