C

Constitution Hill, Johannesburg

Johannesburg, South Africa

Constitution Hill Johannesburg: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Guide

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

Constitution Hill, situated in the heart of Johannesburg, is a powerful symbol of South Africa’s journey from colonialism and apartheid to democracy and human rights. Once a notorious prison complex and military fortification, today it is the seat of the Constitutional Court and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Constitution Hill offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore museums, memorials, and the very courtroom where some of the country’s most transformative legal decisions are made. This comprehensive guide covers Constitution Hill visiting hours, ticketing information, historical context, travel tips, accessibility, and everything you need to plan a meaningful visit (constitutionhill.org.za, southafrica.net, Wikipedia).

Table of Contents

  1. History and Cultural Significance
  2. Constitution Hill Today: Museums, Exhibitions, and the Constitutional Court
  3. UNESCO World Heritage Status
  4. Visitor Information
  5. Nearby Attractions
  6. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
  7. Conclusion and Call to Action
  8. References

History and Cultural Significance

From Gold Rush to Fortress

Following the discovery of gold on the Witwatersrand in 1886, Johannesburg rapidly developed within the Zuid-Afrikaansche Republiek (ZAR). In 1892, the first prison was built on the hill to house white male prisoners, and by 1899, the Old Fort was constructed by order of President Paul Kruger to defend against British invasion (whyjoburg.com).

Prison Complex and Apartheid Repression

After the British capture of Johannesburg in 1900, the Old Fort was repurposed as a prison. Over the decades, it expanded to include:

  • Number Four: For black male prisoners, infamous for its harsh, overcrowded conditions.
  • Women’s Jail: Detaining female prisoners, including anti-apartheid activists.
  • Awaiting Trial Block: For detainees awaiting court appearances.

During apartheid, Constitution Hill became a central tool of repression, where thousands—among them Nelson Mandela, Mahatma Gandhi, Albertina Sisulu, and Winnie Madikizela-Mandela—were imprisoned (constitutionhill.org.za, southafrica.net).

Transition to Democracy

With South Africa’s transition to democracy in the 1990s, the site was transformed into the home of the Constitutional Court. The new court building, inaugurated in 2004, was constructed using bricks from the demolished Awaiting Trial Block, symbolizing South Africa’s commitment to justice and reconciliation (constitutionhill.org.za).


Constitution Hill Today

Museums and Memorial Spaces

  • Old Fort: The original fortress and later a “whites only” prison, where Nelson Mandela was once held (Brand South Africa).
  • Number Four: Chronicling the brutal conditions black men endured.
  • Women’s Jail: Telling the stories of female prisoners and activists.
  • Permanent Exhibitions: Such as “Gandhi: Prisoner of Conscience” and Nelson Mandela’s cell (Brand South Africa).

The Constitutional Court

The court is a working institution and a symbol of democratic values. Its design, with transparent walls and public galleries, invites citizens to witness justice in action. The building is adorned with South African art, including works by William Kentridge and Judith Mason, and incorporates bricks from the old prison (Brand South Africa).

A Living Heritage Site

Constitution Hill hosts annual events like the Human Rights Festival, educational programs, and rotating exhibitions on human rights and democracy (Joburg.co.za).


UNESCO World Heritage Status

In 2024, Constitution Hill was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site under the “Nelson Mandela Legacy Sites,” recognizing its universal value as a monument to human rights and the triumph over oppression (Wikipedia, iamjoburg.africa, ProBono.org). This designation ensures ongoing preservation, funding, and increased global recognition.


Visitor Information

Visiting Hours

  • Tuesday to Sunday: 09:00 – 17:00 (last entry for tours at 15:00)
  • Closed: Mondays and select public holidays (always check official site for updates)

Ticket Prices

  • Adults: R100
  • Seniors (60+), Students: R60–R70 (ID required)
  • Children (under 18): Free / R45 (depending on tour type)
  • Guided Tours: Additional R50 per person
  • Discounts for groups and during Youth Month (June) (Webtickets)

Tickets can be purchased online (Webtickets), at the entrance, or at select retail partners.

Tours

  • Guided Tours: In-depth, led by expert guides; recommended for full context.
  • Self-Guided Tours: Flexible pacing, supported by the Constitution Hill App.
  • Specialized Tours: Including Constitutional Court tours, art and justice, and immersive Time Travel experiences (Webtickets).

Accessibility

  • Wheelchair accessible with ramps and elevators.
  • Accessible restrooms and parking.
  • Tours and facilities can accommodate visitors with special needs.

Facilities

  • Café: Light meals and refreshments.
  • Restrooms: Clean and accessible.
  • Gift Shop: Books, souvenirs, and local crafts.
  • Visitor Services: Maps, multilingual assistance, and information center.

Getting There

  • Address: Braamfontein, Johannesburg, near the city center.
  • By Car: On-site parking available.
  • Public Transport: Close to Gautrain, minibus taxis, and bus routes.
  • Sightseeing Buses: Constitution Hill is a stop on the City Sightseeing red bus (WildTrips).

Nearby Attractions

  • Apartheid Museum: A comprehensive exploration of apartheid history.
  • Maboneng Precinct: Vibrant arts, dining, and shopping area.
  • Johannesburg Art Gallery and Museum Africa: Nearby cultural institutions.
  • Gold Reef City: Theme park and heritage destination (HolidayTourPlan).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are Constitution Hill’s opening hours?
A: Tuesday to Sunday, 09:00–17:00 (last entry for tours at 15:00); closed Mondays.

Q: How do I buy tickets?
A: Purchase online (Webtickets), at the entrance, or at select retailers.

Q: Is the site accessible for wheelchairs?
A: Yes, with ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes—multiple daily options, plus specialized and self-guided tours.

Q: Can I take photos?
A: Yes, in most areas. Look for signage indicating any restrictions.

Q: Are there any COVID-19 protocols?
A: Check the official website for current health guidelines.


Conclusion

Constitution Hill is not just a historical site; it is a living testament to South Africa’s resilience, justice, and the ongoing pursuit of human rights. With its rich history, world-class exhibitions, and vibrant cultural programming, it offers a transformative experience for all visitors. Plan your visit by checking updated visiting hours and ticket options, book a guided tour for deeper insight, and make use of the Constitution Hill App for an enhanced self-guided experience. For the latest news and events, follow Constitution Hill’s official social media channels and download the Audiala app for immersive audio guides.


References


Visit The Most Interesting Places In Johannesburg

11 Diagonal Street
11 Diagonal Street
Absa Tower
Absa Tower
Ansteys Building
Ansteys Building
Apartheid Museum
Apartheid Museum
Arop House
Arop House
Beyers Naudé Square
Beyers Naudé Square
Bidvest Stadium
Bidvest Stadium
Carlton Centre
Carlton Centre
Carlton Hotel
Carlton Hotel
Castle Kyalami
Castle Kyalami
Cathedral Of Christ The King, Johannesburg
Cathedral Of Christ The King, Johannesburg
Chancellor House
Chancellor House
Consolidated Building
Consolidated Building
Constitution Hill, Johannesburg
Constitution Hill, Johannesburg
Doornfontein Synagogue
Doornfontein Synagogue
Emmarentia Dam
Emmarentia Dam
Endstead
Endstead
Faculty Of Engineering And The Built Environment
Faculty Of Engineering And The Built Environment
Fietas Museum
Fietas Museum
Fordsburg Square
Fordsburg Square
Gallagher Convention Centre
Gallagher Convention Centre
Gandhi Square
Gandhi Square
Gold Reef City
Gold Reef City
Helpmekaar Kollege
Helpmekaar Kollege
Highpoint Hillbrow
Highpoint Hillbrow
Hillbrow Tower
Hillbrow Tower
Industrial And Mining Water Research Unit
Industrial And Mining Water Research Unit
James Hall Transport Museum
James Hall Transport Museum
Joburg Theatre
Joburg Theatre
Johannesburg Art Gallery
Johannesburg Art Gallery
Johannesburg City Hall
Johannesburg City Hall
Johannesburg Park Station
Johannesburg Park Station
Johannesburg Planetarium
Johannesburg Planetarium
Johannesburg Trades Hall
Johannesburg Trades Hall
Johannesburg Zoo
Johannesburg Zoo
Kwadukuza Egoli Hotel
Kwadukuza Egoli Hotel
Leratong Hospital
Leratong Hospital
Luthuli House
Luthuli House
Marble Towers
Marble Towers
Markham Building
Markham Building
Mary Fitzgerald Square
Mary Fitzgerald Square
Milpark Hospital
Milpark Hospital
Montecasino
Montecasino
Museumafrica
Museumafrica
National Institute For Communicable Diseases
National Institute For Communicable Diseases
Nelson Mandela Bridge
Nelson Mandela Bridge
Nelson Mandela Square
Nelson Mandela Square
Origins Centre
Origins Centre
Oxford Shul
Oxford Shul
Ponte City Apartments
Ponte City Apartments
Radiopark
Radiopark
Rand Club Building
Rand Club Building
Satyagraha House
Satyagraha House
Scottish Horse War Memorial
Scottish Horse War Memorial
Sentech Tower
Sentech Tower
Soccer City Stadium
Soccer City Stadium
South African National Museum Of Military History
South African National Museum Of Military History
Statue Of Mahatma Gandhi
Statue Of Mahatma Gandhi
Statue Of Nelson Mandela
Statue Of Nelson Mandela
Trust Bank Building
Trust Bank Building
Ucs Building
Ucs Building
University Of Johannesburg
University Of Johannesburg
University Of The Witwatersrand
University Of The Witwatersrand
Wanderers Stadium
Wanderers Stadium
Westpark Cemetery
Westpark Cemetery