Heritage sites, Archaeological discoveries, History of Archaeology

Robben Island

Location

Western Cape Province

Country

South Africa

Year of Research

1999

Culture

Robben Island was used at different times between the 17th and 20th centuries as a prison, a hospital for socially unacceptable groups and a military base.
Its buildings, mostly those of the late 20th century such as the maximum security prison for political prisoners, witness the success of democracy and freedom over oppression and racism.
The buildings of Robben Island tolerate powerful testimony to its sombre history.
Robben Island and its prison buildings symbolize the success of the human spirit, of independence, and of democracy over oppression.