South African Jewish Museum

Take a journey back to the early roots of the South African Jewish community with interactive displays, audio-visual presentations and rare and fascinating artefacts. Marvel at the modern architecture of the museum itself, the contents of which mirror the fusion between the past and present. Take note of the museum’s notable drawbridge feature, connecting the Old Synagogue to the new museum building, which symbolises a ship’s gangway along which immigrants would have been expected to walk. Don’t miss an opportunity to view the world’s finest collections of Netsuke – carved, miniature Japanese sculptures originating from the 17th Century. After an informative afternoon, enjoy a break at the museum’s Café Riteve restaurant.

• Historical building of Cape Town
• Hosts different exhibitions
• Cape Town Holocaust Centre emotional experience
• Includes Nelson Mandela: A Righteous Man documentary viewing

History

Founded by Mendel Kaplan, the South African Jewish Museum was officially opened by former president Nelson Mandela in 2000. Though still relatively new, the museum has deep historic roots including the distinction of being housed in South Africa’s first synagogue, built in 1863. The museum is intended to be a dutiful record of the history of South Africa’s Jewish community. This includes the community’s historical roots in Lithuania and elsewhere, its instrumental role in the evolution of South African democracy and noteworthy contributions to contemporary society.

Practical information

• Photo ID required for all visitors