While death can be a pretty morbid topic, there are many graves in South Africa that are the final resting place for some of the most prominent individuals in this country’s history. From political leaders to epic innovators, you can walk along (or near) the greats at some dedicated graveyards and private locations.
Unsplash/Josh Roland
Unsure where you’ll be able to walk along the tombstones and find a famous name? Take a look at a few locations that are sure to feel like the scary and South African version of the Walk of Fame.
Shaka Zulu (KwaZulu-Natal)
A militant leader and African warrior, Shaka Zulu is one of the most well-known conquerors of South African history. While he is known for having a checkered past regarding his warfare tactics, he is solidified in history as the creator of the Zulu nation.
His final resting place is in the KwaDukuza district at the Shaka Memorial site, which has been declared a heritage site. The location was quite near the site where his half-brothers assassinated him.
Shaka allegedly dragged his body after being fatally wounded and died where the visitor’s centre is located.
Nelson Mandela (Eastern Cape)
A visionary for a brighter future, Nelson Mandela is arguably the most famous South African in terms of historical and political contributions. This former president was buried on 15 December 2013 at his ancestral home in Qunu, which is referred to as the Mandela Graveyard.
While you cannot physically visit the grave, you can stop by the house to pay your respects from a distance and walk through the town’s streets to see where Mandela spent most of his youth.
Christiaan Neethling Barnard (Western Cape)
Christiaan Neethling Barnard was a powerhouse like no other, known for his innovative medical contributions and for carrying out the first successful heart surgery. He died in 2001 from a fatal asthma attack in Cyprus.
He was cremated, and his ashes were buried in the town he grew up in at his parents’ house in Beaufort West. His tombstone conveyed the sentimental message, “I came back home.”
Desmond Mpilo Tutu (Western Cape)
Desmond Tutu was a South African hero who received the Nobel Peace Prize for his leadership role in using a nonviolent approach to end Apartheid. Interestingly, he opted to be aquamated instead of cremated, as it is more eco-friendly.
His final resting place is at St George’s Cathedral. While you cannot visit his physical grave, you can enter the church where his ashes are housed.
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