Mandela: The Official Exhibition

“Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.”

– Nelson Mandela

Mandela: The Official Exhibition takes guests on a personal journey through the life of the world’s most iconic freedom fighter and political leader, Nelson Mandela.

An immersive and interactive experience, the exhibition features previously unseen film, photos and the display of over 150 historical artifacts and personal effects on loan from the Mandela family, museums and archives worldwide. Through a series of immersive zones – each one a dramatically different experience – you will be taken on a journey through his remarkable life. His epic story is told in a series of experiential galleries from his rural childhood home through years of turbulent struggle against the apartheid regime, to his eventual vindication and final years as South Africa’s first democratically elected president.

A century on from his birth, what does ‘Nelson Mandela’ mean today, in a world where inequality and injustice are still rife? Nelson Mandela: The Official Exhibition asks these difficult questions and examines his legacy. Mandela’s values and commitment to making the world a better place are just as vital now as they were during his lifetime. This is a story we can all learn from, and be inspired by.

CLOSED

Political prisoner. World leader. Symbol of the struggle against oppression.

  • Nelson (Rolihlahla) Mandela was born in the village of Mvezo on 18 July 1918.
  • Mandela studied law and became one of South Africa’s first black lawyers.
  • In the 1950s, he was elected leader of the youth wing of the African National Congress (ANC) liberation movement.
  • Mandela was imprisoned from 1962-1990 for treason and conspiracy against the government. He was sentenced to life in prison, but was released early when the ANC became legal again.
  • In 1993, Mandela won the Nobel Prize for Peace, along with South Africa’s president at the time, F.W. de Klerk, for having led the transition from apartheid to a multiracial democracy.
  • Mandela was South Africa’s first black president, ‘Father of South Africa’ from 1994-1999.

What to expect

  • Fresh insight into the people, places and events that formed Mandela’s character and the challenges he faced.
  • Previously unseen film, photos and the display of over 150 historical artifacts and personal effects on loan from the Mandela family, museums and archives worldwide.
  • Mandela’s suit worn for the opening of the South African parliament in 1996.
  • His traditional head dress gifted to him by The King of the Xhosa people, King Xolilzwe Sigcawu as he awarded Mandela the ancient tribal warrior honor of the Isithwalandwe Sesizwe,
  • On display for the first time in two decades, Mandela’s presidential desk and chair and his much loved iconic beige trench coat.
  • Immersive media presentations and scenic re-creations, to enable guests to actively engage with and experience key moments in Nelson Mandela’s life.
  • Reflect on Mandela’s passing after a lifetime of service to others: what is his legacy and how can we all adopt some ‘Madiba values’ in our daily lives to be part of that legacy?

 

Exhibition Pricing

This is a paid experience.

Ages

Price

*50% off original ticketed price. Offer valid through September 17, 2023.

Members $4.00*
Adults (ages 13-59) $8.00*
Seniors (ages 60+) $6.50*
Children (ages 5-12) $5.00*
Children 4 and under FREE*
Military $7.00. Discount Available On-Site*

Groups: Pricing available for all groups

Group Visit Information

*Additional discounts do not apply to this special offer.

*There is no charge for Children 4 and under, but a free ticket is still required.

Sneak Peek of the Exhibition

For many years a life in prison without hope of reprieve seemed to be Nelson Mandela’s fate. Explore how his personality and determination helped to shape and steer a particular culture on Robben Island. See how his determination and intellect set him apart, not just as one of the leaders of an outlawed freedom fighting movement, but as a man determined to show respect and kindness to all, and in doing so, encouraging others to engage and change.

  • Be immersed in Robben Island prison
  • Journey through a timeline of the struggle of his family and his nation in the “outside” world
  • Enter into Nelson Mandela’s thoughts through a powerful video presentation of letters he wrote during his time in prison
  • Marvel at artifacts from the prison years

Inside the Exhibition

Gallery 1: Meeting Mandela

An introductory multimedia presentation offers an overview of Madiba’s life and times, serving as a preview of the exhibition. It sets the tone by reminding visitors of the evils of the apartheid government and then quickly walks through Nelson Mandela’s accomplishments from a freedom fighter to president and humanitarian.

“Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” – Nelson Mandela

Gallery 2: Early Years (1918–1941)

Learn about the people and places – Mvezo, Qunu and Mqhekezweni – that shaped Madiba as a child and a young man, and the roles these places played in defining his personality, philosophy and style of leadership.

  • Be immersed in the Transkei landscape and explore a typical rondavel
  • Witness Nelson Mandela’s family tree and be introduced to the people who raised him
  • Gain a greater understanding of his rural beginnings as a farm boy via rarely-seen artifacts from his childhood homes, many never publicly displayed until now

“No one is born hating another person because of the color of his skin, or his background, or his religion. People must learn to hate, and if they can learn to hate, they can be taught to love, for love comes more naturally to the human heart than its opposite.” – Nelson Mandela

Image Descriptions (left to right):

  1. Thembu beaded pipe.
  2. Boys in the Transkei, South Africa. Keystone, Getty.
  3. Jacket Nelson Mandela and his cousin Justice shared while attending school at Fort Hare. On loan from Chief Zenomatho and the town of Mqhekezweni.
Gallery 3: ‘The Struggle is My Life’ (1941–1964)

The making of Mandela – see Nelson Mandela’s transformation as lawyer and activist, a rising star in the ANC and a thorn in the side of the nationalist government. Also learn of the heavy cost of his defiance: the loss of family and liberty that would profoundly affect him for the rest of his life. Nelson Mandela made a defining life choice – to do what he believed was right, no matter what the consequences, even at the risk of sacrificing his own life.

  • Experience of life under apartheid – the oppressive impact of racism and segregation on daily life
  • Witness resistance and retaliation – key moments in the growing struggle
  • Listen to Nelson Mandela’s own words from the Rivonia Trial
  • Think about ‘What would you do’? Nelson Mandela was prepared to die for his cause if necessary. What are you prepared to do for a cause?

“Only through hardship, sacrifice and militant action can freedom be won. The struggle is my life. I will continue fighting for freedom until the end of my days.” – Nelson Mandela

Image Descriptions (left to right):

  1. UWC-Robben-Island Museum Mayibuye Archives.
  2. Trial Card from Rivonia. Supplied by Liliesleaf.
  3. Typical signage from the Apartheid era in South Africa. Getty.
Gallery 4: 10,000 Days: The Prison Years (1964–1990)

For many years a life in prison without hope of reprieve seemed to be Nelson Mandela’s fate. Explore how his personality and determination helped to shape and steer a particular culture on Robben Island. See how his determination and intellect set him apart, not just as one of the leaders of an outlawed freedom fighting movement, but as a man determined to show respect and kindness to all, and in doing so, encouraging others to engage and change.

  • Be immersed in Robben Island prison
  • Journey through a timeline of the struggle of his family and his nation in the “outside” world
  • Enter into Nelson Mandela’s thoughts through a powerful video presentation of letters he wrote during his time in prison
  • Marvel at artifacts from the prison years

“The challenge for every prisoner, particularly every political prisoner is how to survive prison intact, how to emerge from prison undiminished, how to conserve and even replenish one’s beliefs.” – Nelson Mandela

Image Descriptions (left to right):

  1. Nelson Mandela’s Cutlery from Robben Island. On loan from Christo Brand.
  2. Nelson Mandela sewing clothes in the court yard on Robben Island. AP Images / Cloete Breytenbach/Daily Express London.
  3. Nelson Mandela’s personal tennis racquet from Robben Island. On loan from Christo Brand.
Gallery 5: Freedom? (1990–1994)

Nelson Mandela may have appeared to be a free man the day he walked out of Victor Verster prison, but it was not his destiny to lead a quiet, normal life. What happened next was extraordinary. Realise just how close to the edge of total civil war South Africa was before the landmark ’94 election. As South Africa’s newly enfranchised population went to the polling stations, did anyone really know what freedom looked like? Did anyone have any real idea about what would happen next?

  • See artifacts from this remarkable period, including Nelson Mandela’s treasured raincoat, Nobel Peace Prize and election campaign materials
  • Experience a multimedia display of a country in crisis: South Africa on the brink of civil war
  • Celebrate the watershed 1994 election through eyewitness accounts of this landmark moment in history

“Our march to freedom is irreversible. We must not allow fear to stand in our way. Universal suffrage on a common voters’ role in a united democratic and non-racial South Africa is the only way to peace and racial harmony.” – Nelson Mandela

Image Descriptions (left to right):

  1. Tension and violence dominated the years between Nelson Mandela’s release from jail and the first democratic elections. Getty.
  2. Nobel peace prize.
  3. Nelson Mandela and FW de Klerk.

 

Gallery 6: Healing a Nation (1994–2013)

Re-examine Nelson Mandela’s presidency and the following retirement years – when he was anything but ‘retired’. This extraordinary chapter in his life is characterized by huge energy, the endless movement of international travel and his dedication and determination to fulfill his life’s mission. A mission he pursued even into his 90s, before age finally caught up with him.

Most of all, in this section witness Nelson Mandela’s remarkable capacity for forgiveness, to see the best in people while accepting their flaws.

  • See Nelson Mandela’s Presidential suit, documents and Nelson Mandela shirts
  • Explore filmed testimonials from some of the people who worked closely with him including FW de Klerk and Zelda La Grange, notable personalities like Stevie Wonder and Peter Gabriel, and family members including his grandson Chief Mandla Mandela
  • Relive Nelson Mandela’s ‘Iconic moments’ from SA Rugby World Cup to his meeting with Queen Elizabeth to his star-studded events to raise awareness of AIDS/HIV

“As long as poverty, injustice and gross inequality exist in our world, none of us can truly rest.” – Nelson Mandela

Image Descriptions (left to right):

  1. Nelson Mandela’s UN card. On loan from Zelda la Grange.
  2. Personal note to Senator Govan Mbeki (on loan from Zelda la Grange).
Gallery 7: The Meaning of Mandela

Conclude your journey through the exhibition with a reflective and emotionally resonant experience.

Nelson Mandela sends you off in his own words and inspires to you carry on with his work.

Remembering Mandela – a filmed series of remarkable personal accounts from people whose lives have been changed by Nelson Mandela. A mix of famous people and citizens.

  • Celebrate Mandela with a film compilation of the man’s philosophy, values and wisdom, in his own words
  • Share your feelings about what Nelson Mandela means to you and what you will do to live his values in your daily life
  • Be inspired about the future as you explore written and video testimonials from exhibition visitors, famous politicians and well-known actors, athletes and musicians

“What counts in life is not the mere fact that we have lived. It is what difference we have made to the lives of others that will determine the significance of the life we lead.” – Nelson Mandela

 

Visit FAQ

Why is the Saint Louis Science Center hosting this exhibition?

First and foremost, the Saint Louis Science Center is dedicated to serving our whole community. We act as a trusted source of education, respite, and as a forum for ideas and conversations. Our incredible traveling exhibitions facility, Boeing Hall, gives us an opportunity to bring in experiences from all over the globe and share them with you, our guests.

We feel we have a duty to share stories from many different voices. Nelson Mandela’s very human story is one of both anguish and triumph, and one that we believe enriches the lives of all who learn of it. It is a story we’re honored to host and to share, and one that is sadly not so far in the past as you might think.

Additionally, we know that the sciences are rigorous and very specialized fields. Ensuring representation in these fields means acknowledging the social barriers that hinder access to the kind of quality education required to excel. Mandela himself was an outspoken advocate for the importance of education for all, and as we believe the power of knowledge belongs to everyone, we echo his call.

Finally, we exist for our whole community, and wish for everyone to see themselves here in our halls and in the faces of the heroes we cover. Exhibitions like Mandela: The Exhibition helps us tell the ever-evolving human story and ensure we remain a home for everyone in the years to come.

What is Mandela: The Official Exhibition?

Mandela: The Official Exhibition reveals his epic story in a series of experiential zones. It takes visitors on Mandela’s life journey, from his little-known beginnings in rural Mvezo, Transkei, through decades of turbulent struggle against the apartheid regime, to his eventual vindication and final years as South Africa’s first black president, ‘Father of South Africa’, and a globally loved and respected figure.

Where can I get tickets? Can I purchase group tickets?

Tickets are sold for a specific date and time. You can purchase your tickets online by clicking the button on the page above, titled “Buy Tickets.” This will ensure your time slot is held to enter the exhibition.

Additionally, you can buy tickets at the museum box office for the next available time period once you arrive. Keep in mind that time slots can sell out so you may have to wait until the next open time. To avoid this, we encourage you to purchase your tickets in advance.

Your ticket is good all day, however, we are limited by capacity, and cannot guarantee re-entry. Please plan your ticket times accordingly.

All pertinent information for purchasing group tickets can be found on our Group Visits page.

Learn More

How long will it take to view the exhibition & how long can I stay inside of it?

Guests can travel through the exhibition at their own pace but typically guests spend between 45 and 60 minutes. Many visitors plan for more time to experience the rest of the Saint Louis Science Center.

You may visit as long as you like or until the exhibition closes. Please note that exhibition has a timed-entry and the last guests will be admitted to the exhibition 1 hour prior to closing time so please plan your visit accordingly. No re-entry will be permitted.

Are children allowed in Mandela?

Please note that all children must be accompanied by an adult while visiting. The exhibition is intended for the whole family, though small children may need your group’s assistance with some of the interactives.

Please note that all children must be accompanied by an adult while visiting.

Will you make accommodations for some in our group that have sensory needs?

We cannot guarantee considerations for those with sensory needs. We recommend visiting on our slower days, usually Monday or Thursday, or calling into our Reservation office to see if we can create a bespoke experience!

Call us at 314.289.4424

Are there exhibition tours available?

We do not offer group, individual, or audio tours at this time.

Are food and beverages allowed in the exhibition?

No food or drink is allowed in the exhibition.

  • Soda cups from the various food eateries at the Science Center need to be left out of the exhibition.
  • Hot food items like pizza must not enter the exhibition even if they are in a box.
  • Bags of chips, popcorn, etc. need to be tucked into a bag.
  • Water bottles with a sealable lid are permitted so long as they are not consumed inside the exhibition.
Can I take photographs or film in the exhibition?

Flash photography is prohibited. Photography and filming without a flash, including all pictures taken with cell phones, are encouraged in the exhibition.

Share your photos on Instagram and tag us @stlsciencecenter. You can also share your experience and photos on Google!

Are cell phones allowed in the exhibition?

In order to encourage a respectful atmosphere, we ask you to please silence your cell phone while in the exhibition.

Educator’s Guide

The Mandela exhibition is a compelling experience for young people, encouraging them to explore and learn in an active and curious way. The exhibition will develop competencies in three areas:

  1. Inquiry skills: Investigating increasingly complex questions using a range of sources and in dialogue with peers.
  2. Applying values to behaviors: Examples of ‘Mandela-isms’ can be applied in learning situations, and offer a call to action for students’ own lives.
  3. Communication: Being imaginative, empathetic and effective in speech, writing and using various media

The exhibition and learning resource are particularly useful for History, PSHE, Citizenship, and English. Activities also link to other subjects including: Geography, Religious Education, Sociology, Critical Thinking, Law, Politics, Media Studies, Theater studies, Physical Education, Music and Visual Art.

Download

Mandela: The Official Exhibition is produced by Round Room Live in partnership with The Royal House of Mandela (RHoM) and RHoM Investments.

Location

Mandela: The Official Exhibition is located on the 1st floor of the main 5050 Oakland Building. Access is available through the main entrance, around the food court, past the overlook, then left, across from the Life Science Lab.

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Programs for Groups

Groups of 10 or more can receive special discounts to the exhibition with advance reservations. Call 314.286.4680 to speak to our Group Sales Manager, or visit our Groups & Field Trips page for more information.

EXCLUSIVE BENEFITS FOR GROUPS 10 OR MORE
  • Discounted tickets
  • No phone service fees
  • Reserve now, pay later
  • Bus and shuttle parking available
Can’t do a coordinated group visit? No problem.
  • Have your business, organization or school district ask about setting up a promo code for discounted individual purchases.

Reserve Today!

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Members get in with a discount.

Save on your exhibition tickets with a Saint Louis Science Center membership.

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Exhibition Policies
  • One (1) adult chaperone for each ten (10) children.
  • No food or beverages are allowed in the exhibition.
  • No pencils, pens, markers or any other kind of writing implements are allowed.
  • Photography is allowed.
Accessibility

The exhibition is accessible to guests with disabilities, as well as guests with strollers, scooters, and walkers. Elevators and ramps serve all public areas.

More About Accessibility