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Nelson Mandela Square is one of the busiest shopping hubs of South Africa. But it doesn’t end with shopping here. It also extends to giving the tourists wonderful experiences for both body and brains. No matter what, if you are in Johannesburg, then this a place you should definitely check out once. Its location being in the very center of the city makes it quite convenient and easy reachable spot for all. Housing nearly hundreds of delicious food serving restaurants, each with a varied theme and vibe, and other shops, you can be assured to find everything the shopper in you needs, here.

About The Nelson Mandela Square

Statue of Mandela at Nelson Mandela Square

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The square got its speedy fame when its name was changed into the Nelson Mandela Square. Earlier it was known by the name Sandton Square, going by its location. Later on, a six-meter tall bronze statue of the former president was unveiled there, thus getting the name Nelson Mandela Square, in honour of his attribution for the country, in the year of 2004. The statue was made by two men named Kobus Hattingh and Jacob Maponyane. The statue is 2.5 tones heavy and is so huge that its mere shoes is 1 meter. In addition to honouring the former president, it also pictorially represents the events before the freedom of this rainbow nation and thus enlightens the visitors of its origin and history.

The square in a whole gives a feel of a Piazza, with its Italian styling and theme. You can taste the best of French wine here. Also, various other exclusive cuisines such as the Greek platters, Italian super creamy coffees, and the indigenous south African steak etc. The options made available for you to shop, are going to make you mind boggled not able to chose from all equally amazing varieties available. From jewelry to home décor to trinkets to what not! Even if you have no intention to buy or shop around, even then do go visit the place for its ambience. Take your date out for a romantic dinner and have a pleasant time together.

Must Read: Kruger National Park In South Africa Is Your Ultimate Date With The Wild


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How To Reach Nelson Mandela Square?

How to reach Nelson Mandela Square

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Since the square is centrally located, access to it is easily available and efficient.
The address being: Atrium on 5th, Sandton City, 2146
Telephone: (011) 217 6000
By air: The nearest airport is Johannesburg International Airport which is 19.7km. the square is 0.7km from the city of Sandton.
By rail: in a five minutes walkable distance from the Mandela Square, there is a Gautrain station that connects to all other stations and even to the airport.
By road: the square is easily accessible from Fifth Street, Maude, West Street.

Where To Stay Near Nelson Mandela Square?

Where to stay near Nelson Mandela Square

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Sandton houses not just elite and classy hotels but also other in-budget accommodations are available. But for the luxury dwellers there are international residences such as the Michelangelo Hotel, which is considered as one of the top-notch hotels worldwide, or the InterContinental Johannesburg Sandton Towers for a premium stay experience. The other options which are a little more pocket friendly are, Holiday Inn Sandton, or the Garden Court Sandton, Radisson Blu Sandton etc.

Suggested Read: 10 Things To Do In Johannesburg That Bring Out Its Vibrant Charm

Things To Do Near Nelson Mandela Square

1. Artisanal Market

Artisanal Market

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From the Sunday, June 17th, 2021 to Sunday, November 25th, 2021
The square is hosting a small fair like village market, selling all the homemade products specially made by by the artisans keeping the quality in mind. The market runs on the basic core theme of “the butcher, the baker, and the candlestick maker”. Thus, the products range from handcrafted home decors to carefully tailored fabric to delicious and satisfying food for the gourmands.

2. Antique Collection Fair

Antique Collection Fair

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On the first Sunday of every month except in the month of January, on an average forty to fifty dealers come and exhibit their collections and display their saleable items. Hence this fair is dual purposed, for exhibition and trade. It’s a paradise for the passionate collectors of artefacts and antique pieces. For others, this fair is a visual treat as you would get to see various interesting articles from the olden era.

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3. Peacemakers Museum

Peacemakers Museum

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Do make a visit to the peacemaker’s museum, that is set up to let the world know the struggles behind the nation’s current position on the global list. The museum testifies the prolonged struggles to abolish the discrimination against the black and other significant events in the making of the country, through various wall displays that include pictures and writings.

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4. Pappas On The Square

Pappas On The Square

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If you are a Greek cuisine lover then this is the place for you. Delicious delicacies such as Greek lamb roast, with flavor of garlic and roasted pepper can can give you foodgasm at any point of the day. There is also an irresistible array of sea food dishes that they serve here.

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5. Piccolo Mondo

Piccolo Mondo

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Piccolo Mondo is a contemporary, fine dining and Italian restaurant at Nelson Mandela Square. Here, they don’t just serve food here, but you get an amazing experience of lunching with a spoilt sophisticated pampering. The glamourous presentation and the overall ambience of the place will sweep you off your feet.

6. Theatre On The Square

Theatre On The Square

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The theatre is the only theatre in and around the town that has given a stage for many artists and actors to showcase their performance and talents. This place hosts many workshops and camps for budding artists to learn and develop their skills. Witnessing the same is a unique experience too.

Further Read: 10 Enchanting Honeymoon Destinations In South Africa

Are you excited about doing all the above mentioned things to do at the Nelson Mandela Square? Plan a trip to South Africa now and celebrate your freedom in life at this iconic centre dedicated to freedom and humanity.


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Category: Destinations, South Africa

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