South African Jewish Museum
"Set the scene for us: Where are we, and what are we going to see?Located next to the oldest synagogue in the country and the Holocaust Museum, the South African Jewish Museum has a grand, sand-colored wall that's unmissable from the street. The interior is modern, with an exhibit that focuses on the history of Jews in South Africa. Sounds pretty cool. How's all this history presented, then?Interactive displays, audio-visual presentations, a shtetl facsimile, and artifacts take visitors back through the the roots of the Jewish people in South Africa. This chapter begins primarily in the 17th-century, as Jews were among the directors of the Dutch East India Company, and runs through its rapid 20th-century expansion, with a compelling chapter on Jews during apartheid. Wow—so, in a lot of ways. Beyond the permanent stuff, are there any exhibits we should check out?In addition to its main focus, the museum has a permanent Netsuke exhibition with around 200 miniature Japanese carvings. Noted! How about the facilities, and the overall location? Is there anything close by that's also worth checking out?Aside from one grand stairway, the museum isn't a challenge to navigate (it's accessible to all visitors). The space is small by museum standards, so you won't be traipsing around for hours. While you're in the area, make sure to visit the the neighboring Cape Town Holocaust Centre, a museum and memorial. Got it; now we have an itinerary! Any advice for the time- or attention-challenged?If you don't have a lot of time, skip the Netsuke exhibition." - Mary Holland
