Johannesburg’s historic Observatory occupies the highest point in the city and commands magnificent views of the city and its suburbs and, of course, the cosmos! There is much of architectural interest. The original wood and iron director’s house is probably the oldest building, but there are three Baker gems too: the original observatory, the elegant library, and the director’s house.

We start our tour of this historic corner of Johannesburg at the Observatory, where we will explore the SAIEE Museum and have access to the telescope room. We then meander down Urania Road to view homes from Observatory’s golden period, including a magnificent art deco Mediterranean villa designed on the eve of the stock market crash by Issy Wayburne that is rumoured to have had a role in the anti-apartheid struggle.

Our tour ends back at the Observatory, where patrons will be able to purchase refreshments to enjoy for lunch in glorious May sunshine.

Email Eira mail@joburgheritage.org.za top book

GUIDES:  Monique Jefferson McDonald and Prof. Katherine Munro

PARK: The Observatory, 18A Gill Street, Observatory

TIME: 10h00

DURATION: 3 hours

COST:  R90.00 for members and R150.00 for non-members – which includes a donation to the Urania Village Residents Association

MAXIMUM No: 60Food and drink will be on sale – so be sure to bring cash!