March 2025
What better way to explore South Africa’s rich cultural history than hopping off the red bus at the SA Jewish Museum?
The South African Jewish Museum is more than just a place to learn about Jewish history; it is a vibrant hub for cultural exchange and understanding. Experience the rich Jewish history of Cape Town City at the South African Jewish Museum, a must-visit attraction situated in one of Cape Town’s most historic areas. Built next to the country's oldest synagogue, this heritage centre offers a fascinating journey through the roots of South African Jewry, featuring a range of fascinating artifacts, interactive displays, and audio-visual presentations. From a recreation of a Lithuanian shtetl to exhibitions on Jewish life in Europe and contemporary South Africa, the museum highlights the unique narrative of Jewish immigrants. With its striking architecture and design, the museum’s collection and events offer an immersive experience into this vibrant community’s past and present.
Watch a video about the museum here:
Visitors to the South African Jewish Museum at 88 Hatfield St are in for a compelling journey back to South African Jewry’s early roots. This marvel of modern architecture, seamlessly blending a fusion of the Old World and the new, is situated next to South Africa’s oldest synagogue, the Old Synagogue, built in 1863. Some exhibits include interactive elements that allow visitors to engage more deeply with the content, making it a memorable experience for both adults and children. The museum traces the rich history of South African Jewry, offering a range of interactive displays that take visitors on a journey back through time—connecting South African Jewish history with its origins in Eastern Europe and elsewhere. A standout feature is the scaled-down rendition of Lithuania, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the heritage of great Jewish communities. Among the powerful exhibits, visitors can view photographs and paintings honoring figures like Nelson Mandela and Helen Suzman, who fought tirelessly against apartheid. The award-winning documentary, Nelson Mandela: A Righteous Man, is screened daily. The museum often organizes events, lectures, and workshops that engage the public in discussions about Jewish culture, history, and contemporary issues.
