How often do we explore the wonderful historical and cultures wonders on our own doorsteps? There is so much to see and learn about who we are and where we come from – so pretend you’re a tourist and make the time…
Groenkloof National Heritage Monument
A mere 5km from Pretoria, on the R21 en route to the Fountains Valley Resort, you’ll find the Groenkloof National Heritage Project, where life-sized bronze statues are a testimony to our past and honour the heroes who have helped to make SA what it is today. Ranging from those who were at the front of the anti-colonial wars to modern freedom fighters (such as Olive Schreiner, Steve Biko, Clements Kadalie and Albertina Sisulu) this work in progress aims to eventually include 400 figures by some of the best artists in the country. This monument is a collection of works that sets out to make visitors reflect and connect with their inner selves – and it is something all South Africans should be proud of.
Kruger House Museum
60 Church Street
Located just a few blocks from the famous Church Square, the current Kruger House Museum is what used to be the last house in which President Paul Kruger lived before he headed to Europe in exile. And even if this bit of history doesn’t fascinate you, the building itself is a fine example of Victorian architecture and not just pretty to look at but quite interesting too: the cement was mixed with milk instead of water, as the cement available in those years were thought to be inferior. Another interesting tidbit is that President Kruger’s home was the first in the city to use electricity – and he was also one of the first to get a telephone in Pretoria (in 1891). Some of the artifacts from the days when he and his second wife, Gezina, lived there include the knife that he used to amputate his thumb after a shooting incident.
African Window Museum
Visagie Street
Also known as the South African National Cultural History Museum and the Ditsong National Cultural History Museum, this museum is home to comprehensive collections that include Rock Art displays, tribal arts and history as well as Cape Dutch furniture, and there’s a whopping 5 million objects that can be viewed here. With an emphasis on the diversity of cultural groups that can be found throughout SA, as well as Stone Age and Iron Age exhibits. Mrs Ples, the ancient skull found at the Sterkfontein Caves in the Cradle of Humankind can also be viewed here.
