Iziko Slave Lodge: Remembering the Voices of the Past

Name: Iziko Slave Lodge
Address: Wale Street, Cape Town, Western Cape, 8000, ZA
Rating: 4.5

Home
Destinations
Cape Town
Iziko Slave Lodge: Remembering the Voices of the Past

Overview

Located in the heart of Cape Town, the Iziko Slave Lodge stands as a poignant reminder of the human injustices faced by enslaved individuals from regions such as Indonesia, Madagascar, Mozambique, and India-Ceylon. Established in 1679 as a Dutch East India Company slave lodge, this historic structure is the second oldest building in Cape Town, having once sheltered over 9,000 enslaved men, women, and children, as well as the mentally ill. The museum engages visitors with compelling exhibitions that recreate the harrowing experiences of slaves, both aboard the ships that transported them and within the confines of the lodge. Highlights include an interactive light pillar symbolizing the passage of time and a permanent exhibition titled 'From Human Wrongs to Human Rights,' providing a comprehensive look at slavery's impact on South Africa. In addition to its focus on slave history, the upper galleries feature a variety of artifacts, including ceramics, silverware, and ancient Egyptian relics, enriching the cultural tapestry of the museum.

Reviews

Albert Lee

United States

An incredible museum. A key quotation that resonated with me was how outside these walls, one might forget about slavery, but within them, its profound impact on humanity becomes glaringly clear.

David Markham

United States

This museum offers poignant and detailed insights into the horrors of slavery. A must-visit in Cape Town, it will undoubtedly touch your heart and reshape your perspective on humanity.

Matthew Turner

United States

Although I wish this museum wasn't needed due to the terrible history it represents, it is incredibly educational and moving.

Sarah Kapoor

India

The museum provides valuable information, but the experience can be exhausting with the amount of reading required. While I nearly left within 20 minutes, I persisted and appreciated the vast array of artifacts displayed. Planning for around 2.5 hours to fully tour is ideal, but if you're just browsing, it can be done in about 45 minutes to an hour. This may not be the best place for those who dislike reading.

Kiran Bhandari

India

This museum truly moved me. It is well-curated and rich in information about the early days of enslavement, the brutality involved, and the rights stripped from enslaved individuals. The upper floors detail the Black consciousness movement, youth protests, and the Soweto uprisings, highlighting numerous anti-apartheid activists with informative profiles. I strongly suggest visiting this museum.