Iziko South African Museum

Overview

The Iziko South African Museum is the oldest museum in sub-Saharan Africa, founded in 1825. Located in the Company's Garden, it houses extensive collections spanning natural history, palaeontology, and indigenous rock art.

Highlights

• Whale Well: Life-size casts of several whale species suspended from the ceiling.
• San Rock Art: One of the world's most important collections of San/Bushman rock art and artefacts.
• Stone Bones: A remarkable collection of Karoo fossils including ancient therapsids.

History

Founded by Lord Charles Somerset in 1825, the museum moved to its current purpose-built home in the Company's Garden in 1897. It has been continuously expanding its collections for nearly 200 years.

Visitor Tips

• Planetarium: The attached digital planetarium hosts regular shows.
• Free Days: Check for free admission days.
• Duration: 1–1.5 hours.