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| Home / Articles / Culture and Heritage / World Heritage Sites - Robben Island |
| World Heritage Sites - Robben Island |
“We will not allow Robben Island to be turned into a Chamber of Horrors.” Nelson Mandela
Robben Island, (Seal Island in Dutch) was a place of exile and isolation for 400 years. 1959-1991, Apartheid Government rulers incarcerated those regarded as political rebels and social outcasts, on the island infamous for brutality. Freedom fighters were often imprisoned for more than 25 years, with efforts to destroy their morale and isolate them. The only reading material was the Bible. Family members could visit for 30 minutes every six months. Former prisoners, now tour guides, point out that windows facing the sky and mountains are barricaded. Due to the strength of their convictions, Robben Island became a global symbol of the triumph of the human spirit over incredible adversity, and today, Island visits are often viewed as a mini pilgrimage.
Besides African leaders, activists and Muslims leaders from Dutch colonies, the most famous prisoner was of course Nelson Mandela.
After 1960s, prisoners organized various activities, and1981’s hunger strike facilitated improvement of conditions. Since 1997 Robben Island has functioned as a museum of South African heritage.
Take the ferry from V&A Waterfront. Book in advance, and wear something windproof.
ALSO ON THE ISLAND:
Lighthouse- The only lighthouse in the country to utilize a flashing light.
The Moturu Kramat- Built in 1969, this Spiritual Muslim burial site, commemorates Sayed Abdurahman Moturu, one of Cape Town’s first Imams (Muslim spiritual leader.)
Penguins- There’s a popular penguin colony on the island.
Did you know?
You could actually walk to Robben Island, if you were around in the stone ages, before sea-levels rose!
It was a hospital for leprosy and mental patients, and afterwards a training and defence station in WWII.
Until 1980 no one, besides prisoners, had set foot on the Island.
The last prisoners left with their possessions in an apple box.
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| Safari information that may interest you: |
List of World Heritage sites in SA
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