Constitution Hill
Constitution Hill stands as a visceral testament to South Africa’s transition from the darkness of apartheid to the light of democracy, built physically upon the foundations of a brutal colonial and segregationist past.
What to expect
The site is divided into three primary zones. The Constitutional Court is the architectural highlight; it sits atop the site of the former Awaiting Trial Block. Look for the massive wooden doors etched with the Bill of Rights and the repurposed red bricks salvaged from the demolished prison wings, which are embedded into the court’s walls to serve as a reminder of the site's oppressive origins.
The Number Four Square and the Women’s Gaol offer a chilling look at the daily lives of inmates. The Women’s Gaol is particularly poignant, featuring permanent exhibitions detailing the harrowing experiences of political prisoners like Winnie Madikizela-Mandela. Walking through the cold, cramped solitary confinement cells and the courtyard—where the silence is often heavy—provides a stark contrast to the nearby glass-fronted, sun-drenched courtroom.
History & significance
Originally built in the late 19th century as a fort, the complex functioned as a prison for nearly 100 years. It famously incarcerated Mahatma Gandhi, who spent time here during his Satyagraha campaign, and Nelson Mandela, who was held here before the Rivonia Trial. Today, the complex serves a dual purpose: it is both a site of remembrance and the highest court in the land, illustrating the country’s triumph in creating a constitutional democracy that protects the very people the prison once sought to crush.
Practical tips
- Hours: Open Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM; weekends 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM.
- Tickets: Entry is affordable (typically under R100 for adults), and guided tours are highly recommended to provide necessary historical context. Book online via the official Constitution Hill website to skip potential queues.
- Best time to visit: Arrive at 9:00 AM. Jozi summers are intense; the outdoor transit between prison blocks becomes scorching by midday. Allow at least three hours to process the heavy subject matter properly.
- Security: This is an inner-city site; keep your belongings secure and be mindful of your surroundings when moving between the entrance and the parking areas.
Getting there
Constitution Hill is located at 11 Kotze Street in Braamfontein. Do not attempt to walk here from distant neighborhoods; use a ride-hailing service (Uber or Bolt is standard and safe) and request to be dropped off directly at the main entrance gate on Kotze Street. There is secure, gated parking on-site if you are driving.
Nearby
- The Orbit: A few blocks away in Braamfontein, this is a world-class jazz club and restaurant. It is the perfect spot to decompress and soak in the vibrant, modern energy of Johannesburg’s artistic youth culture.
- Juta Street: Wander down this street in Braamfontein for trendy coffee shops, local designer boutiques, and street art, which showcases the neighborhood’s ongoing role as a creative hub for the city’s urban renewal.