The Eastern Cape province is known for its natural beauty and impressive culture. It also boasts a rich history worth exploring.
The destination is home to a number of interesting museums which serve to persevere the area’s history, while also educating visitors about different aspects of the region.
Here’s a look at a few museums to visit in the Eastern Cape:
Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Art Museum
Located in Gqeberha, the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Art Museum has been open to the public since 1956. It boasts a rich history and is the ideal place to view an impressive collection of art and cultural artifacts.
The museum initially started off with a collection that consisted of a few hundred artworks. Today, it consists of over 6500 pieces. Expect to view stunning South African art, as well as some interesting British art.
Albany Museum
Picture: Getaway Gallery
Established in 1855, the Albany Museum is one of the oldest museums in the country. It is located in Makhanda and consists of a family of seven buildings.
It boasts a rich and diverse history that spans over a century and a half, showcasing South Africa’s unique cultural, scientific and historical heritage. There are also educational tours and programmes to make your visit as educational as it is interesting.
East London Museum
A visit to the East London Museum is the perfect way to add a bit of culture and historical fascination to your exploration. It was established in 1921 and is home to a collection of over 300 000 objects.
The museum’s collections cover a number of subjects, including natural history, geology, archeology, art and cultural diversity. There are many notable objects worth viewing, including the first isiXhosa Bible, as well as the extinct Dodo bird.
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Amazwi South African Museum of Literature
Picture: Sourced
The Amazwi South African Museum of Literature is a treasure trove of literary history. It was founded in the 1960’s by the late Professor Guy Butler with only a small collection of South African manuscripts.
Today, it is the place to be for anyone yearning to explore the country’s rich literary heritage. The museum’s permanent exhibitions depict the landscape of the country’s literary representation from colonial times until today.
It has become a Declared Cultural Institution, with a mandate to collect literary artifacts in all of South Africa’s official languages.
Amathole Museum
Picture: Sourced / Amathole Museum
Located in King William’s Town, Amathole Museum is dedicated to preserving and promoting the region’s natural and cultural heritage. It is home to an impressive collection of artifacts and exhibits which showcase the rich history of the Eastern Cape.
One of the many interesting collections worth seeing features extensive rock art. It allows you to admire and explore ancient paintings and engravings that were created by the San people.
Featured Image: Sourced / Facebook (Albany Museum)
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