EXPLORE JOBURG'S HISTORIC EVOLUTION AND URBAN REGENERATION WITH JHF THIS WEEKEND
Explore Johannesburg’s rich history, cultural tapestry, and ongoing transformation with the Johannesburg Heritage Foundation (JHF) this weekend. These walking tours of the mining district and Victoria Yards and surrounds offer locals a fresh look at Johannesburg's incredible journey from a gritty mining camp to a bustling hub of creativity. Whether you are a lifelong Jozi resident or a curious visitor, these tours are designed to get you out into the streets, connecting with the stories, people, and architecture that shaped our city.
Saturday: The Mining District – Johannesburg’s Origin Story
- Date & Time: Saturday, 4 July at 09:00
- Guide: Eugenie Drakes (JHF Expert)
- Meeting place: Old Anglo American Office Building, 44 Main Street, Ferreirasdorp
- Tickets: https://www.quicket.co.za/events/378147-johannesburgs-mining-district/
Johannesburg’s journey to becoming Africa’s financial powerhouse began with the 1886 gold rush. This tour takes a leisurely stroll down the semi-pedestrianised Main Street in Ferreirasdorp, where the city’s early mining and financial institutions first established their headquarters.
While many corporate head offices have since relocated, the district's architectural heritage, public art, and historical relics remain remarkably intact. Today, the area is undergoing a rapid, positive transformation. Guide Eugenie Drakes will lead visitors through the past, present, and future of the precinct, highlighting how Old Joburg is being revitalised with a new focus on education, social development, and community impact.
Sunday: Victoria Yards and Lorentzville – Heritage and rejuvenation
- Date & Time: Sunday, 5 July at 10:00
- Guides: Wade Venter, Yvonna Venter, and Ed Coogan
- Meeting place: Victoria Yards, 16 Viljoen St, Lorentzville
- Tickets: https://www.quicket.co.za/events/382838-victoria-yards-an-urban-oasis-in-joburg-east
Established in 1892, Lorentzville is one of Johannesburg’s oldest and most culturally diverse suburbs. Having been home to historic figures such as Mahatma Gandhi, William Kentridge, and Sol Kerzner, the neighbourhood retains its distinct character through its classic face-brick architecture, semi-detached houses, and resilient community spirit.
At the heart of this heritage precinct is Victoria Yards, a 1913 steam laundry complex that has been successfully repurposed into a world-class creative hub. The site now accommodates artist studios, artisan workshops, urban agriculture initiatives, galleries, and community projects.
Led by expert JHF guides, the tour will explore Victoria Yards, its natural river system, and the surrounding Lorentzville neighbourhood.
To see the full July tour line-up, please visit https://www.facebook.com/joburgheritage.org.za. All proceeds fund the activities of the JHF.