5 Heritage Sites to Visit for Heritage Day in South Africa

Heritage Day in South Africa is a public holiday that holds a special place in the hearts of South Africans.

To truly embrace the spirit of Heritage Day and to learn valuable historical knowledge, visit a heritage site. These sites are important landmarks that hold significant value in South African history and culture.

In this post, we’re going to give you a brief rundown of Heritage Day and list five must-visit heritage sites in South Africa that you and your kids will enjoy.

When is Heritage Day?

Heritage Day in South Africa, also known as “Braai Day,” is celebrated on September 24th every year. This year, 2024, Heritage Day falls on a Tuesday.

What Is Heritage Day?

September 24 used to be known as Shaka Day, a special holiday to celebrate Shaka, the famous Zulu king. After apartheid ended in South Africa in 1994, the country introduced a new holiday to celebrate its diversity and cultural heritage.

Heritage Day was celebrated for the first time on September 24, 1995! The purpose of this holiday is to celebrate South Africa’s “Rainbow Nation” and foster unity among its diverse population.

It’s a day to embrace, preserve, and share the unique traditions of South Africa.

Why Do We Celebrate Heritage Day?

As South Africans, we celebrate Heritage Day by acknowledging and embracing the diverse cultures, traditions, languages, and beliefs that make up our country.

Each year, the Department of Arts and Culture organises annual meetings to commemorate Heritage Day, selecting a unique theme for the celebrations.

This year’s National Heritage month is launched under the theme, “Celebrating the lives of our heroes and heroines who laid down their lives for our freedom”.

If you’re looking for ideas on how you and your family can celebrate Heritage Day, continue reading as we list our top five must-visit heritage sites in South Africa.

5 Must-Visit Heritage Sites in South Africa

Knowledge is power, and what better way to improve it and celebrate Heritage Day than by visiting some of South Africa’s most iconic heritage sites?

Here are our top picks for a culturally enriching experience:

1. Robben Island

Located just a few kilometres from Cape Town, this infamous island was once used to imprison political prisoners during apartheid. Today, Robben Island serves as a reminder of the country’s dark past and honours the bravery of those who fought against oppression.

It is a great educational field trip for your kids and a humbling experience for adults.

2. Devil’s Peak

Devil’s Peak is a notable mountain in the Western Cape and one of the iconic peaks in Table Mountain National Park. According to legend, in the 1700s, a talented pipe smoker named Jan Van Hunks lived at the base of Devil’s Peak.

The story goes that whenever he climbed the mountain to smoke, he would encounter a strange man with whom he’d compete in smoking contests. It is said that this mysterious man was actually the devil himself.

Today, Devil’s Peak serves as a popular hiking trail for nature enthusiasts and offers stunning views of Cape Town from its summit. It is an excellent Heritage Day excursion for those who appreciate nature and a good story.

3. The Cradle of Humankind

Located in the Gauteng province, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is estimated to be over 2.3 billion years old. It is home to some of the world’s most significant fossil discoveries, including those of Mrs. Ples and Little Foot.

The Cradle of Humankind allows visitors to step back in time. They can explore interactive exhibits, tour ancient caves, and even participate in hands-on activities like fossil hunting.

4. Khoisan Rock Art, Cederberg

The Cederberg region is known for its rugged landscapes and is home to some of the most significant collections of Khoisan rock art in South Africa.

These rock paintings, estimated to be over 10,000 years old, offer a glimpse into the indigenous people’s traditions and beliefs.

Visitors can take guided tours to view these ancient artworks and learn about their cultural significance. This unique experience allows visitors to connect with history and appreciate the artistic talents of our ancestors.

5. Isandlwana battlefield, KwaZulu-Natal

Isandlwana battlefield is a significant historical site in South Africa in the KwaZulu-Natal province.

On January 22, 1879, the Zulu King Cetshwayo rallied 20,000 brave Zulu warriors armed with assegai and ventured into the fields of Isandlwana. There, they achieved an incredible victory over a British camp, successfully pushing back the first British invasion of Zululand!

The public can visit this battlefield and take a guided tour to learn more about the events that took place on that fateful day. It is a powerful and moving experience to stand where history was made.

All five of these Heritage sites offer unique and valuable insights into South Africa’s diverse history. From ancient rock art to the more recent struggle against apartheid, these sites allow us to learn, remember, and honour our past.

Celebrate this day by learning, experiencing and appreciating the rich cultural heritage that South Africa has to offer.

Happy Heritage Day From Tutor Doctor!

We believe that by learning about our past, we can build a better future. We hope that you will take the time to visit these sites and explore more of South Africa’s Heritage on this special day.

“For those who do not remember the past are condemned to repeat it.” – George Santayana

Let us remember and learn from our history and celebrate the diverse cultures that make up our beautiful nation.

Happy Heritage Day!