AA Traveller Winter 2022

26
Soweto
Towers
Graffiti in
Braamfontein
ReginaMundi
Catholic Church
FNBStadium
Avisit to Soweto is essential ifyou’re
in Jozi. Dating back tothe early 1900s,
this sprawling urban space was created
for black residents who were made
to live there under the apartheid
government’s segregationist laws. Itwas
the scene for many of South Africa’s
most important events, including the
signing of the Freedom Charter in1955
and the Soweto Youth Uprising in1976.
Today this “city within acity” is avital
part ofJohannesburg and has its own
vibrant culture.
Soweto had adeepand meaningful past,
much of it centred around apartheid and
the struggle for freedom. Tolearn more,
we recommend you check out Mandela
House (mandelahouse.com), the former
home of Nelson and Winnie Mandela.
It is located at8115 Vilakazi St, Orlando
West. Tickets start atR40.
Regina Mundi Catholic Church, often
referred to as “the people’s church”,
played apivotal role inthe struggle
against apartheid and is amust-visit too.
It is at 1149 Mkhize Street, Soweto. Bring
cash to pay asmall entrance donation.
If, like us, you believe the best way to
experience aplace is through its cuisine,
then add Lebo’sSoweto Backpackers
(10823 Pooe St, Orlando West) toyour
list. This fabulous Soweto spot offers
meals outdoors intheir communal park.
Choose from potjiekos, curries, bunny
chow, salads and abraai. Lebo’s also
offers avariety of accommodation,
including acamping ground, dorms and
private rooms. If you want toexperience
Soweto “like alocal”, they offer daily
bike, walking and tuk-tuk tours. Lunch
and tour bookings can bemade on
sowetobackpackers.com.
Make sure toinclude aphoto stop at
FNBStadium (stadiummanagement.
co.za) on your way toSoweto. The
calabash-shaped structure, with its
arresting red, brown and gold colouring,
seats over90000 spectators andhosted
the opening and closing ceremonies of
the 2010 FIFA World Cup. FNB Stadium
is at Soccer City Ave, Nasrec.
Township vibes
AATraveller | SUMMER 2021