South Africa’s “march to freedom” has been a long and complex one, and visitors that have accommodation in Pretoria, Johannesburg or the surrounding areas will find themselves completely awe-struck by this country’s journey when they visit the Long March to Freedom Monument. This fascinating monument, which is growing all the time, has recently been relocated to the Maropeng Visitor Centre at the Cradle of Humankind.

This monument is currently a collection of 100 bronze statues. They are life-sizes figures, created by various South African artists, of important figures. The procession starts in the 18th century, and represents the rebel chiefs and the missionaries that rebelled and helped the African tribes. Then, it moves through the ages, featuring key freedom fighters that made massive impacts on the faces of inequality and discrimination. These statues include Nelson Mandela, Walter Sisulu, Oliver Tambo, Ruth Mompati, Helen Suzman, and Miriam Makeba.

The statues were created by local artists like Barry Jackson, Xhanti Mpakama, Otto du Plessis, Jop Kunneke, and Keith Clader.

The monument will eventually comprise more than 400 bronze statues. Visitors can wander amongst them, joining them on this soulful journey and celebrating their victories, but sparing themselves the incredible loss and heartache that accompanied the efforts of these freedom fighters. In doing this, the monument becomes a means of unifying a nation, integrating everyone - regardless of colour, age, gender, language or culture.

This poignant experience offers visitors the opportunity to be a physical, tangible part of the South Africa of the past, present and future.

Maropeng is 111 kilometres from the OR Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg, making it easily accessible and convenient for visitors.

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