Cato Manor Heritage Centre
Cato Manor, known for its unique multi-cultural community, its informal settlements, and various religious sites is perhaps best known for its dramatic history of forced removals. Large black and white prints at the Cato Manor Heritage Centre vividly depict the stark realities of evictions, rebellion, riots and suppression.
A focus on the ‘Durban System’ which was administered and implemented by city officials links themes explored at the Cato Manor Heritage Centre to the KwaMuhle Museum in Bram Fischer Road providing visitors with an ideal opportunity to explore the cities history by visiting both museums and then by traveling through the area also referred to as ‘Umkhumbane’ by locals.
How to find the Cato Manor Heritage Centre:
For drivers approaching the museum from the city centre: drive on the freeway heading towards Pietermaritzburg. After reaching the crest of the road on the Berea (and passing under Tollgate bridge) keep left. Take the Mayville turnoff and follow signboards to Cato Manor. At the bottom of the hill turn left drive along Cato Manor Road for about 3km. Towards the bottom of the hill one approaches traffic lights turn left towards the University and …..Now in Francois Road you will pass a petrol station on your left and just beyond also on your left is a office block the Ntuthuko Junction. Set just off the road this building houses the Cato Manor Heritage Centre on the ground floor. Turn left and drive into the office parking area which is monitored by security access control.
Plan your visit:
08:30 to 16:00 Monday to Saturday
11:00 to 16:00 Sundays and Public Holidays
Closed : Good Friday and Christmas Day
Entrance Fee: Free
Parking: On site for visitors only
Museum Facilities: Public toilets, outside the museum.
Nearest refreshments and shops: A small restaurant is next door to the Cato Manor Heritage Centre and serves light refreshments.
Other: Various religious sites and temples are located in the vicinity.