Why is Johannesburg a Top Destination for Cultural Tourism in South Africa?

Established in the 19th century to feed the gold rush of that time, Johannesburg is a huge part of South African history. Its allure as a gold country soon saw the city become a hub for diverse cultures to co-exist, forming the axis of Johannesburg's appeal. In this article, you will discover tips on how to explore Johannesburg as a cultural hub in South Africa.

How Varied is the Cultural Diversity of Johannesburg?

The city is a modern hub and one of the most diversely populated destinations in South Africa. Johannesburg offers a marvellous blend of language, traditions, and culture immersed in music, art, and food. If you are a culture buff and enjoy gallery hopping, visit the Maboneng Precinct as a priority. The area is home to numerous art galleries, traditional restaurants, and cafes, the perfect accompaniment while enjoying your art. You should also check out the Theatre of the Struggle, which was established during the time of apartheid and continues to function as an important venue for performing artists. Also, not to be missed is the street art that adorns the alleys and lanes—keep an eye out for these as they tell many a tale while showcasing the talents of local artists. In terms of where to stay in Johannesburg, the Sandton area is a popular spot. The best hotels in Sandton are sought-after accommodation options in South Africa, as the area is central to top attractions in Johannesburg. You will discover favourites like NH Johannesburg Sandton among others for a comfortable stay.

Explore the Apartheid Museum

The Apartheid Museum will take you back to an important era in South African history; it's a sad yet important reminder of the importance of perseverance when seeking change. The displays highlight the struggles and victories of the people who fought for their beloved nation. For more information and insights on the struggles and triumphs of the South African people, you can check out Constitution Hill. The place was once a military post and prison, so there are many stories to be learned there, but be warned, it's very realistic and showcases sensitive stories. However, if you are eager to learn all you can about the nation's colourful history, complete your journey by exploring the Soweto Museum and the Hector Pieterson Memorial Institute. These places are easy to reach from well-located hotels in Johannesburg and are often part of local tours—check with your hotel in South Africa for details.

Discover the UNESCO Heritage Sites of Johannesburg

There are several UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Johannesburg that offer a chance to learn about human evolution. The Sterkfontein Caves, for example, are renowned for the remains of some of the world's oldest recorded hominid fossils. Hominid fossils are the preserved remains of ancient human beings that are very similar to modern humans in skeletal structure and bodily functions. Believed to be over 1.5 million years old, the fossils at Sterkfontein, prove to be fascinating to view.

Photograph by Mike Peel (www.mikepeel.net)., Sterkfontein Caves 14, CC BY-SA 4.0

Enjoy Experiencing a Fine Amalgamation of History and Modernism

A thrilling aspect of Johannesburg is its infrastructure, which is a seamless blend of modernism with vintage allures. The Sandton area is one of the best examples of how much the city has progressed while retaining its African roots. The financial hub of South Africa, Sandton is nicknamed the richest square mile in Africa and boasts a fine collection of malls, fashion boutiques, and luxury hotels in South Africa. Sandton is the most popular tourist destination in Johannesburg and easily blends with Soweto, which is about half an hour away and is regarded as the heart of the anti-apartheid movement. Vilakazi Street in Soweto was home to Desmond Tutu and Nelson Mandela, which makes it a top attraction in South Africa.