Iconic Cape Town attraction to CLOSE for almost three months
The iconic landmark is closing in order to undergo renovations. That's ahead of an expected visit by G20 leaders later this year.
Robben Island, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of South Africa's most important landmarks. It is best known as the site where anti-Apartheid leaders like Nelson Mandela were imprisoned for their activism.
In a statement, Robben Island Museum described the upcoming visit by G20 leaders as an 'honour' as South Africa is the first country on the continent to host the summit. It continued:
'Hosting G20 dignitaries at Robben Island is deeply symbolic, allowing the world to witness the legacy of those who sacrificed everything for freedom and the country that rose in their honour.'
The museum noted that the closure would allow the Cape Town attraction to 'perform necessary maintenance and renovations' that it had identified and presented to the G20 Planning Committee. The statement continued:
'The decision to suspend tours was not taken lightly. Robben Island remains one of South Africa's most treasured national heritage sites, attracting hundreds of thousands of visitors annually. While this temporary closure may disrupt some plans, it prioritises safety, preservation, and long-term benefit.'
Visitors who have tickets for this period will be refunded in full. To learn about Robben Island, tourists can view an exhibit at the Nelson Mandela Gateway at the V&A Waterfront.
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