Mystery and Delight - Exploring Johannesburg's Old Arcades

ABOUT

Johannesburg used to be a City of Arcades. They were an attractive option for property owners keen on maximising valuable retail space and a boon to shoppers, providing them with protection from the rain, dirt and dust.

Our Victorian and Edwardian arcades were usually charming, delicate cast-iron structures supporting a glass roof canopy, with exquisitely tiled floors. Unfortunately, almost all were lost in the rush to modernise and make investments pay. But one survived the carnage.

Hidden between bustling Gandhi Square and a forgotten corner of Fox Street, Somerset House was boarded up by the United Building Society and used to house safety deposit boxes; its chequerboard floor and green art-nouveau tiles lost to view. But now, through the vision of Gerald Olitzki (who revived nearby Gandhi Square, Fox Street and beyond) it has been returned to its former glory.

We are privileged to be offering an opportunity to explore historic Somerset House as well as some of the city’s lost arcades. This is a tour not to be missed, with a cast of amazing characters and fascinating stories about the early days of Johannesburg.

Parking in Momentum Building Basement. Meet at Gandhi Square, in front of the Gandhi Statue.

DIRECTIONS