Soweto is probably South Africa’s most captivating and energetic township, known for its history and avant-garde culture. It has surreal beauty and adrenaline rushes for adrenaline junkies as well as a unique charm. It’s a go-to destination for people looking for something unique, thanks to its rich history and ethnicity.
It hosts beautiful murals and intricate graffiti for your camera to capture, as well as respected historical sites with raw stories and imaginations. Make sure that your Soweto tour includes the following:
Hector Pieterson Museum
At 8287 Khumalo St, you will find everything you need to know about the fateful day of June 16, 1976 in Sowetos history. It provides a glimpse into the youth rebellion and uprising that resulted from Afrikaans becoming a language of instruction. During the rebellion, the young Hector Pieterson was killed by one of the shots used to supress the riots. Every publication at the time ran a moving photograph of a fellow student taking him into his arms.
The museum has preserved many items from that day. A tribute is paid to those who died in that tragedy through photographs and audio-visual presentations, with all of their names on the Hector Pieterson memorial.
Mandela House Museum
This museum was once the residence of former South African president Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela and his family. The Soweto Heritage Trust has converted the house, with its simplicity and raw authenticity, into a world-class attraction to educate visitors about the historical significance and legacy of his great personality.
Mr. Mandela’s and his family’s memorabilia, photographs, and paintings are on display at the museum at 8115 Orlando West.
You might also be interested in a Pilanesberg Safari
Vilakazi Street
This street is world-famous because it was home to two Nobel Prize winners, Nelson Mandela and Desmond Tutu. Hector Pieterson was also shot there. This street represents Soweto in its purest and most raw form, blending culture, food, and historical sites with tourists, alien ideals and stories, and, most importantly, the blending of two worlds.
An appealing feature of this street is the artwork displayed at the road’s intersection. It has eight huge grey hands that spell out “Vilakazi” in sign language.
Soweto’s landmark, the Orlando Towers
A must-see attraction on a Soweto tour are these towers in Chris Hani Road that were used as coal-burning power plants. They were left unused and neglected after their work ceased in 1998. In 2008, the brilliant idea surfaced to convert them into an entertainment centre clad in beautiful and captivating artwork. The artworks are life-size, absolutely stunning and moving depictions of the Soweto lifestyle, its people, culture, and everything in between.
Regina Mundi Church
This is the largest Roman Catholic Church in South Africa, built in 1961 and located in the heart of Rockville at 1 149 Mkhize Street. It was a safe haven for those who needed to hide while fighting apartheid and the only support for the students who fled the Orlando stadium to escape police open fire.
The church was attacked however, damaging the marble altar and crucifix and the bullet holes were preserved as a reminder.
Oppenheimer Gardens
The gardens at 991 Majoeng Street offer natural tranquilly and aesthetic serenity with many indigenous and numerous trees and plants, many of which are used to make medicines, and cover parts of the Credo village and the Oppenheimer tower.
The tower offers a panoramic view of the entire township and the dense forest is an ideal bird sanctuary.
Credo Mutwa Cultural Village
This village/outdoor exhibition of traditional houses at 991 Bochabela Street is a must-see for those interested in African beliefs and culture with a modern twist. They display some of the most exquisitely carved and crafted sculptures, as well as artwork depicting African ethnicity, culture, and folklore.
Credo Mutwa, who created these works of art, was a healer of his time with apparent psychic abilities.
You need to visit Soweto to appreciate the township culture with a touch of rich history.
