An old prison in Pietermaritzburg where some of South Africa's freedom heroes were held during the past, including Nelson Mandela, Albert Luthuli, Alan Paton, Harry Gwala, Peter Brown, Moses Mabhidha, A.S. Chetty, John Langalibalele Dube, King Dinizulu KaCetshwayo and Mahatma Ghandi.
It has several buildings that were built over the years, with the first completed in 1862 — one of the oldest buildings in Pietermaritzburg.
Others include a kitchen and an execution block that housed the gallows, torture rooms and high security prisoners.
It was closed in 1989 in favour of a newer and larger one in Napierville, and now serves as a museum run by local churches.
What to do thereExplore the museum, see and even know more about South Africa's past, or get some souvenirs.
There's a cafe onsite.
Best time to visitAny time of the year.
Location of The Old Prison museumIn urban Pietermaritzburg — South Africa
How to get thereBy vehicle, train, walking, cycling, bus, vehicle.
There is a railway station nearby and an airport within the city's limits.
