Nelson Mandela Square

In earlier times this square was known as Sandton Square. On March 31, 2004 the square was renamed Nelson Mandela Square. If you are ever in Johannesburg , South Africa, then you will need to make sure you go to the Nelson Mandela Square to do some shopping and get a course on a bit of history.

Honoring the South African statesman by putting a 6-metre statue of the man himself in the center of the Sandton City shopping area, Kobus Hattingh and Jacob Maponyane sculpted this 2.5 ton replica.

From 1994 to 1999, Nelson Rohihlahla Mandela served as President of South Africa. Born on July 18, 1918, Nelson Mandela was an anti-apartheid activist as well as the leader of Umkhonto we Sizwe, the armed wing of the Aftican National Congress before becoming President of South Africa. Mandela served up 27 years in prison after being convicted of sabotage and other crimes he committed when he led the movement against apartheid. Three years of this time was done at Robben Island .

When he was released from prison on February 11, 1990, Mandela went on to support reconciliation and negotiation and helped lead the movement towards multi-racial democracy in South Africa. Madiba is another name in which Mandela is known for. A voluntary title assumed by seniors of Mandela's clan. In over forty decades Mandela got more than 250 awards including the 1993 Nobel Peace Prize. Marking his donation to world freedom, Nelson Mandela's birthday, July 18th is known as " Mandela Day".

Nelson Mandela Square is encircled by beautiful hotels and magnificent restaurants. Creating a central point where local and foreign tourists can reflect about the events that lead to the formation of the Rainbow Nation. The statue was also created in honor of the previous presidents vision of a free and just South Africa.

There are about 93 elite shops, little sidewalk cafes and some fine dining. Mandela Square is the perfect spot for lodging after you get done with all the shopping and fine dining, This square was designed in the Italian piazza style decor. Mandela Square is a must see place for your vacation if you visit Johannesburg . There is so much history here it is simply amazing. At night, you can go see one of the many theaters in the square. Many world class performers come here each year to carry out a tradition in South Africa.