Discovering The City Of Gold: Johannesburg Top Attractions And Things To Do

The largest city in South Africa, which often goes by the name ‘City of Gold’, Johannesburg is a place that holds back a hold of history. Not only is it a hub of cultural experience, but Johannesburg is also known for its exquisite natural beauty, jungle safaris and adventure sports. This city in South Africa has witnessed in the past several atrocities, and risen up nonetheless. A place known for its revolution, politics and people, visiting Johannesburg is an experience in itself. With several art galleries, local markets and handicraft museums, Johannesburg does not fail to impress its visitors even in the domain of art and culture. A city that has so much to offer, from history, culture, politics and nature trails, let Johannesburg unveil for you as you check out these top places to visit in Johannesburg.

Here are some of the top attractions and sightseeing spots in Johannesburg you cannot miss out on

Apartheid Museum

History holds witness to the rise and fall of South Africa, the Apartheid Museum is one such Johannesburg attraction that offers its visitors an insight into the implementation of the apartheid system and skillfully portrays an inspiring story about Africa’s struggle towards democracy. A visit to the Apartheid Museum is truly an overwhelming experience. You don't need to be a history buff or a student of politics to indulge in the experience of a lifetime that this museum has to offer.

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Spaza Art Gallery

A visit to the Spaza Art Gallery in Johannesburg will surely be one of the most extraordinary experiences you will ever witness. This place to visit in Johannesburg is the home and gallery of artist Andrew Lindsay. The Spaza Art Gallery is a sculpture garden which is filled with mobile phone signal towers which are covered with thousands of plastic bottles. This Johannesburg tourist attraction also showcases mosaics and wooden sculptures, along with an extremely small art gallery that displays art on matchboxes, aprons and tea towels. There are events that take place in the Spaza Art Gallery on the first Sunday of every month, so keep in mind the dates when you plan your vacation to Johannesburg.

Nizamiye Mosque

Situated in the far northern suburbs of Johannesburg, the Nizamiye Mosque is a replica of the Ottoman Selimiye Mosque of Turkey. A prominent architectural beauty that was built by hundreds of Turkish artisans, a visit to this mosque is truly awe-inspiring. A Johannesburg sightseeing spot, the Nizamiye Mosque is completely built with Turkish materials and displays beautiful hand-woven carpets and a massive tiled dome inside the mosque. One of the most distinguishing things to see in Johannesburg, you will be engulfed by the most peaceful and serene atmosphere on your visit here. We are also able to witness an amalgamation of different cultures since non-Muslims are welcomed during the time of prayer.

Newtown Pillars

Among the top things to do in Johannesburg is for you to visit the Newtown Pillars if you are someone who is interested in art or photography. The Newtown Pillars are gigantic concrete pillars which hold up the M1 Highway, and a Johannesburg attraction that is known for its graffiti murals, and outdoor art gallery. With relevant art and graffiti being displayed by some of South Africa’s top artists, one can witness the artwork in progress too, if you're visiting in April as artists annually update the graffiti during the Back To The City Fest, which happens to be the biggest HipHop festival in Africa. A great spot for photoshoots, the Newtown Pillars is a place to visit in Johannesburg with great contemporary relevance.

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Lam Rim Buddhist Centre

One might not expect a Buddhist Centre situated in the western suburbs of Johannesburg, but the city has its little surprise ready with the Lam Rim Buddhist Centre. A place in Johannesburg which was a former church tower, has now been painted in hues of yellow and red and is home to a Tibetan Buddhist Shrine. Experience the stunning kaleidoscopic interiors of this shrine, as you take part in some of the free meditation classes that they conduct.  

Disclaimer: The details mentioned throughout this blog are sourced from publicly accessible platforms. At Zeezest, we intend to share factual and verified information. Should there be any inconsistencies or variances in the information provided, please understand that these are entirely unintentional and not meant to mislead.