BACKGROUND INFORMATION

The Constitution Hill is a living museum that tells the story of South Africa’s
journey to democracy.In 1995 a momentous decision was taken to locate
the Constitutional Court of South Africa in Joburgs inner city1During
Apartheid the Constitution Hill use to be a prison that opened in 1893 and
closed in 1983,2The prison was designed by Netherlands-born state
architect Sytze Wierda,3the Fort served mainly as a prison and for a short
period of time as a military defence post. The Fort served as a prison for a
range of people, both criminal and political prisoners, in 1892.4Fast forward
to many years in the future, given this history,people saw the potential of
this site as a place of memory,that educated communities and individuals
of historical processes that occurred during the path towards democracy
lied in the similarities between the abuses of the past and the hope for the
future5.Once the site had been selected, three architects – Derek and
Vivienne Japha from the University of Cape Town and Johannesburg-based
Herbert Prins – were appointed to survey the site and finalize a design 6

INTRODUCTION

1
https://www.constitutionhill.org.za/pages/about-constitution-hill
2
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Constitution_Hill,_Johannesburg
3
https://www.concourt.org.za/index.php/about-us/the-building
4
https://www.southafrica.net/gl/en/travel/article/place-of-human-rights-constitution-hill-johannesburg
5
https://ourconstitution.wethepeoplesa.org/south-african-constitution/the-constitution-and-me-today/suppo
rt-our-work/
6
https://www.sitesofconscience.org/membership/constitution-hill-south-africa/

1
The preservation of historical and cultural heritage sites is a vital aspect of safeguarding a
nation's identity,7 promoting social cohesion, and fostering an understanding of its past. In the
context of South Africa, a country with a complex and rich history marked by struggle, resilience,
and transformation8, the significance of heritage sites holds particular importance. This research
assignment seeks to delve into the importance and value of South African heritage sites, with a
specific focus on Constitution Hill9, as a lens through which we explore the broader South
African context.This research takes multiple approaches, drawing on historical, cultural, and
political perspectives to comprehensively evaluate the significance of heritage sites in South
Africa.Through my research I aim to provide a collective understanding of the role of heritage
sites in shaping collective memory, preserving cultural narratives, and contributing to the overall
success of South Africa. The primary objective is to critically assess the importance and value of
Constitution Hill I will also look into it's impact on, social justice, and the building of South Africa
as a nation

Constitution Hill, a historically and symbolically significant site in Johannesburg, serves as a

manifestation of South Africa's complex history. 10From its origins as a colonial fort and a military
prison to its transformation into a beacon of justice and democracy, Constitution Hill stands as a
testament to the nation's struggle for liberation and its commitment to freedom. This research ,
examine how it encapsulates the legacy of apartheid, the triumph of democracy, and the
ongoing pursuit of social justice11. This research will uncover the layers of significance hidden
within Constitution Hill.

By focusing on Constitution Hill, this research will zoom out from the specific site to
contextualize its significance within the broader South African landscape. Through an
exploration of the interconnectedness of heritage sites across the country, the research aims to
shed light on the collective impact of these sites on fostering a sense of belonging, promoting
historical consciousness, and engaging with the complexities of South Africa's heritage.
Furthermore, the research will examine how the preservation and commemoration of heritage
sites contribute to social cohesion, community development, and the empowerment of unheard
voices, ultimately articulating their relevance in shaping a more inclusive and equal future for
South Africa.

BODY

7
https://www.meriam-webster.com/dictionary/heritage
8
https//rarecoins.co.za/the-history-of-the-south-african-mint/
9
https://www.internations.org/south-africa-expats/guide/living-short
10
https://www.sahistory.org.za/place/constitution-hill-museum-johannesburg
11
https://museumexplorer.co.za/constitution-hill-precinct/

2
First and foremost ,I would like to start off with the cultural significance of the Constitution
Hill.The Constitutional Court's door was first opened by then President Nelson Mandela on the
14 of February 1995.It occupied temporary accommodation elsewhere then on the 21st of
March 200412, Human Rights Day and 10 years after South Africa became a democracy, the
Constitutional Court was inaugurated at Constitution Hill.The site is now home to the
Constitution Hill Human Rights Precinct, which includes the Constitutional Court of South Africa.
This court is the highest court in the country and plays a crucial role in upholding the values of
democracy and human rights

Then President Thabo Mbeki, speaking at the opening, said, “The court represents the
conversion of the negative, hateful energy of colonialism, subjugation and oppression into a
positive, hopeful energy for the present and the future; a celebration of the creative potential of
our people that has given us an architectural jewel. Constitution Hill also makes the statement
that central Johannesburg will continue to grow and thrive, no longer a place of segregation and
urban decay, but a leader in our country and continent as the city of the future.”

The following day, 22 March 2004, Constitution Hill opened to the public as a museum focused
on heritage, education and tourism.President Mbheki perfectly encapsulated the cultural
significance of the Constitution Hill as he presented it as as a marker of the inhumanity that was
suffered by the majority of South Africans,as well as a beacon of hope for reconciliation and
nation building, as it was viewed as having the potential to become a bridge for a once divided
nation. Its potential was not only seen as a means for reconciliation between generations who
experienced and remember the history,but also generations who are ostrisized for not being a
part of that history. Furthermore,Constitution Hill, in its location in urban Johannesburg, provides
opportunities for urban regeneration as well as economic and social empowerment for the
surrounding communities as well as potential to reclaim urban memories and spaces.

In addition to that the site is a place of remembrance and reflection where visitors can learn
about the country's past and honor the sacrifices made by those who fought for freedom and
equality. It serves as a symbol of the country's commitment to healing and reconciliation, as well
as a reminder of the importance of upholding human rights and dignity for all.

Overall, Constitution Hill is a powerful symbol of the struggles and triumphs of the South African
people. It stands as a testament to the resilience of those who have fought against oppression
and injustice, and as a reminder of the importance of upholding human rights and democracy.
.
Moving on to the political history of the Constitution Hill.In 1907, a women's section was added,
the Women's Gaol.13 An awaiting-trial block was constructed in the 1920s.This trial block was a
12

https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Constitution_Hill,_Johannesburg#:~:text=During%20the%20apartheid%20
era%20the,was%20imprisoned%20here%20in%201906.
13
Langa, Justice 2010. "The Constitutional Court of South Africa: The First Decade." Journal of South
African Law 27(2): 123-145.

3
place were many were detained without fair trial under Apartheid laws. Both political activists
opposed to apartheid and common criminals were held at the prison, and striking white
mineworkers in 1907, 1913 and 1922.14 During the apartheid era the prison complex became a
detention centre for political dissidents opposed to apartheid, striking white mineworkers (in
1907, 1913 and 1922), those deemed "anti-establishment" and those who simply violated the
pass laws of the time. Mahatma Gandhi was imprisoned here in 1906. Nelson Mandela, Joe
Slovo, Bram Fischer, Albert Lutuli and Robert Sobukwe are some of its famous prisoners15. For
this reason it was also called ''The Robben Island of Johannesburg'' due to how infamous it
became as a result of holding these political prisoners. The site housed prisoners until 1983,
when it was closed16.

Activists were usually held as awaiting trial prisoners and then sent off to Robben Island or
Pretoria to serve jail terms. Brewing beer – an illegal activity if you were black – also landed
many women in jail, a situation depicted in the Women Gaol.17 This serves as a constant
reminder of the political significance of this magical place

During the apartheid era, Constitution Hill became a potent symbol of the struggle against racial
segregation and oppression. The prison housed both black and white political prisoners,
reflecting the all-encompassing reach of apartheid policies. The notorious apartheid-era prison,
known as "The Fort," was characterized by overcrowding, inhumane treatment, and extreme
brutality, serving as a constant reminder of the injustices of the apartheid regime.

Following the end of apartheid in 1994, Constitution Hill underwent a transformation into a
symbol of South Africa's commitment to justice, equality, and human rightsThe Women's Gaol,
where female political prisoners were held, has been transformed into an exhibition space
celebrating women's contributions to the struggle for democracy.Constitution Hill holds deep
political significance as a site that encapsulates our country's journey from colonial oppression
to democracy. Through its history as a prison and now as the home of the Constitutional Court,
Constitution Hill stands as a powerful symbol of South Africa's commitment to justice, human
rights, and reconciliation. By remembering the past and upholding the values of the constitution,
Constitution Hill plays a crucial role in shaping the future of a democratic South Africa

14

https://www.constitutionhill.org.za/home#:~:text=Constitution%20Hill%20is%20a%20living,the%20rights%
20of%20all%20citizens.
15
https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/02582473.2019.1610037
16
http://www.scielo.org.za/scielo.php?script=sci_arttext&pid=S0041-476X2014000200008
17

https://www.constitutionhill.org.za/home#:~:text=Constitution%20Hill%20is%20a%20living,the%20rights%
20of%20all%20citizens.