Iziko South African Museum

The Iziko South African Museum. Photo courtesy Ian Junor

The Iziko South African Museum, founded in 1825 and situated in the Company’s Garden, takes care of more than 1.5-million items of cultural and scientific significance.

The collection ranges from fossils and Stone Age tools to clothing and artefacts both old and modern – together representing natural and cultural history. The African dinosaur display is a highlight, as is the rock art display. Children will also marvel at the many stuffed animals, including a spiney anteater, an okapi, and a stoat, among many others. There are also temporary exhibitions. Some of the diverse subjects that have been covered in the past are minerals, newspaper history, desert culture and bats.

One of the most impressive features of the museum is the Whale Well. Here, among the giant whale bones and life-size casts of marine creatures, musical recitals are often held.

For only R20 for visitors older than 18 and R10 for pensioners and students, it is well worth the experience. Entry is free for under-18s and on selected commemorative days.

Plenty of parking is available, including for disabled people, and there are shops, a café and conference facilities.

Visit the Iziko Museums website, www.iziko.org.za, for more information.