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Memorial · Paarl, Cabo Ocidental
Estátua de Nelson Mandela na prisão de Drakenstein
Bronze statue of Mandela with his fist raised at the gate of the former Victor Verster prison, through which he was released on 11 February 1990.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Estátua de Nelson Mandela na prisão de Drakenstein
Nelson Mandela spent the last 14 months of his imprisonment in a house inside Victor Verster prison, between Paarl and Franschhoek, after years on Robben Island and at Pollsmoor prison. It was through that gate that he walked out free, hand in hand with Winnie Mandela, on 11 February 1990, in front of the world’s cameras.
The prison, now called Drakenstein Correctional Centre, is still operational. At the entrance gate there is a bronze statue of Mandela with his right fist raised, in the gesture he made that day.
That afternoon Mandela went to Cape Town and gave his first speech as a free man from the town hall balcony, facing the Grand Parade.
The visit is quick: the site is just the gate and the statue, with the Drakenstein mountains in the background, and it is usually a stop on the route between Paarl and Franschhoek.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
15 to 30 minutes.
Best time
During the day, as a stop on the way between Paarl and Franschhoek.
How to get there
It is on the R301, about 10 km from Paarl town centre, on the way to Franschhoek. Access is by car or tour only.
Tip
The prison is operational: stay in the statue area and follow staff instructions.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Estátua de Nelson Mandela na prisão de Drakenstein
Where was Mandela released?
At Victor Verster prison, now Drakenstein, between Paarl and Franschhoek, on 11 February 1990.
Can you enter Drakenstein prison?
No. The prison is operational; the visit is to the statue at the gate.
How long does the stop at Mandela’s statue take?
About 15 to 30 minutes, on the way between Paarl and Franschhoek.