Westpark Cemetery

Westpark Cemetery: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Highlights in Johannesburg

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

Westpark Cemetery, situated in Johannesburg, South Africa, is one of the city’s most significant and culturally diverse burial sites. Established in 1942 on the historic Waterval Farm, it reflects Johannesburg’s multicultural evolution over more than eight decades. Home to sections for Christian, Jewish, Muslim, Chinese, and other communities, Westpark Cemetery is both a tranquil sanctuary and a living chronicle of the city’s societal tapestry. Its grounds feature notable collective monuments such as the Commonwealth military graves from World War II and the Holocaust Memorial, deepening its role as a place of remembrance and education.

This comprehensive guide provides insight into Westpark Cemetery’s rich history, details on visiting hours and tickets, accessibility information, the significance of its memorials, and practical tips for visitors, ensuring a respectful and meaningful experience.

For further details, refer to resources such as Citizen and Wikiwand.

Historical Overview
Cultural and Multifaith Significance
Notable Memorials and Interments
Visitor Information: Hours, Access, and Tours
Accessibility and Facilities
Preservation, Capacity Challenges, and Community Engagement
Nearby Attractions
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Practical Visitor Tips
Conclusion and Call to Action
References

Historical Overview

The origins of Westpark Cemetery trace back to the late 19th century, when the Geldenhuys brothers acquired Waterval Farm during the Johannesburg gold rush of 1887. Although their mining efforts proved unsuccessful, the land became vital for the city’s expansion. In 1942, a portion of the farm was sold to the Johannesburg council, and the cemetery was officially established, with its first burial on February 10, 1942 (Citizen).

Over time, Westpark Cemetery grew in tandem with Johannesburg’s population, accommodating a wide spectrum of religious and cultural communities and mirroring the city’s dynamic social landscape (Wikiwand).

Cultural and Multifaith Significance

Westpark Cemetery is renowned for its inclusive approach, providing dedicated sections for Christian, Jewish, Muslim, Chinese, Roman Catholic, Polish, Belgian, Greek, and other communities, as well as for stillborn infants (Wikiwand; Citizen). The Jewish section is the largest in Johannesburg and features a Holocaust Memorial, established in 1995, as a testament to the resilience and memory of the Jewish community.

The cemetery also commemorates the Salvation Army, police and military personnel, and victims of the Westdene Dam disaster, underscoring its role as a focal point for both personal and collective remembrance.

Notable Memorials and Interments

Military and War Graves

Westpark Cemetery is home to a dedicated Military Plot containing 617 Commonwealth service graves from World War II, 21 war graves of other nationalities, and additional non-war graves. The Commonwealth War Graves Commission maintains these sites, and the Johannesburg Cremation Memorial—located near the Cross of Sacrifice—honors 69 Commonwealth members cremated during the war (Wikiwand; Citizen).

Prominent Figures

Westpark Cemetery is the final resting place for many notable South Africans, including:

Nkosi Johnson – Child AIDS activist
Alfred Nzo – Anti-apartheid leader and Foreign Affairs Minister
Joe Modise – Former Minister of Defence
Amina Cachalia – Women’s rights activist
Phillip Tobias – Anthropologist
Vuyo Mbuli – Broadcaster
Arthur Chaskalson – Former Chief Justice
Charles Herman Bosman – Author
Baby Jake Matlala – Boxer
Irving Lissoos – Medical pioneer
Michael Miller – OK Bazaar co-founder
Benny Goldberg – Liquor industry leader

Memorials and Commemorative Sites

Holocaust Memorial – Erected in 1995 in the Jewish section
Commonwealth War Graves – Extensive WWII memorials
Cremation Memorial – For service personnel cremated at Braamfontein
South African Police Services Memorial
West Park Memorial Wall – For those whose remains are not interred
Polish Garden of Remembrance

Visitor Information: Hours, Access, and Tours

Visiting Hours: Open daily, 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Entry: Free of charge
Guided Tours: Offered occasionally, especially during commemorative events. Check with Johannesburg City Parks and Zoo for schedules.
Photography: Permitted for personal and educational use. Please avoid photographing mourners or private ceremonies.

Accessibility and Facilities

Westpark Cemetery is located in the western suburbs of Johannesburg, accessible by car, taxi, or public transport. The main entrance is on Beyers Naudé Drive in Montgomery Park (mapcarta.com). Ample parking is available on-site. The terrain is mostly flat with paved, wheelchair-accessible paths in key areas, though some older sections may be uneven. Restrooms and water points are situated near the entrance.

Preservation, Capacity Challenges, and Community Engagement

Capacity Crisis

Westpark Cemetery is nearing full capacity, expected by May 2025, prompting authorities to limit new burials and encourage alternative options like cremation, mausoleums, and second interments within family graves (TDPel Media; TimesLIVE). This challenge is part of a broader citywide and national shortage, with 39 of Johannesburg’s 42 cemeteries at capacity.

Maintenance and Security

Managed by Johannesburg City Parks and Zoo (JCPZ), the cemetery is regularly maintained. However, dormant cemeteries face increased risks of vandalism and illegal dumping, necessitating ongoing community vigilance and engagement (TimesLIVE). JCPZ works with local communities, traditional leaders, and funeral homes to raise awareness and encourage sustainable burial practices.

Policy and Sustainability

Efforts are underway to secure new burial grounds and implement policies such as grave reuse and mausoleum construction to extend available space (TDPel Media).

Nearby Attractions

Melville Koppies Nature Reserve: Scenic trails and indigenous flora (Holidify)
Johannesburg Botanical Garden: Tranquil gardens and picnic spots (Holidify)
Zoo Lake: Recreational area with boating and walking paths (Holidify)
Johannesburg Zoo: Over 320 animal species (Miss Tourist)
Gold Reef City Theme Park: Family attractions and historical mine tour (Miss Tourist)
Apartheid Museum: Exhibits on South Africa’s history (Miss Tourist)
Maboneng Precinct: Art galleries and vibrant urban culture (Holidify)
Cradle of Humankind: UNESCO World Heritage paleoanthropological site (Holidify)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are Westpark Cemetery’s visiting hours?
A: Daily, 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM. Check JCPZ for updates.

Q: Is there an entry fee?
A: No, entry is free for visitors.

Q: Is the cemetery wheelchair accessible?
A: Main paths are wheelchair accessible. Some older areas may be uneven.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Occasionally, especially during commemorative events. Contact JCPZ for details.

Q: Can I take photographs?
A: Yes, for personal or educational use. Respect the privacy of mourners.

Q: How do I get there?
A: By car, taxi, or public transport. Parking is available on-site.

Q: Are there restrooms and water points?
A: Yes, near the main entrance.

Practical Visitor Tips

Confirm Hours: Always check the latest visiting hours and any restrictions before arrival.
Dress Appropriately: Modest attire is recommended out of respect for diverse traditions.
Respectful Behavior: Maintain a respectful demeanor and observe silence near memorials and active burials.
Combine Visits: Pair your trip with nearby attractions for a richer experience of Johannesburg’s heritage.
Safety: Stay in well-trafficked areas and avoid isolated sections during off-peak hours (TimesLIVE).

Conclusion and Call to Action

Westpark Cemetery embodies Johannesburg’s historical depth, cultural diversity, and enduring commitment to remembrance. Despite approaching full capacity, the site remains a vital space for reflection, education, and community memory. Visitors are encouraged to approach with respect and awareness, supporting preservation efforts for future generations.

For the most current information on visiting hours, events, and heritage news, refer to Johannesburg City Parks and Zoo or download the Audiala app for updates and travel tips.