The construction of the Maropeng Visitor Centre – Photo essay of the week
The architecture of Maropeng, designed by GAPP Architects and MMA (Mphethi Morejele Architects), was based on the theme of discovery.
On arrival at Maropeng, you will see what looks like a massive burial mound, called the Tumulus. This is where you enter to learn the secrets of humankind’s ancestry, explained in an exciting, interactive exhibition.
This week’s photo essay, taken by Tara Turkington in 2005, looks at the construction of this part of the Cradle of Humankind World Heritage site, which calls you to imagine, explore, contemplate, and discover who you are.
A banner to remind all on site that they were working on Maropeng, a name that means “returning to the place of origin”.
The Tumulus Building in construction.
Former Premier of Gauteng, Mbhazima Shilowa (right), with University of the Witwatersrand Vice-Chancellor, Professor Loyiso Nongxa.
Maropeng was constructed in the Cradle of Humankind, which covers an area of over 47,000 hectares of privately owned land in the north-western corner of Gauteng, South Africa, and is home to over 17,000 residents.
A construction worker laying the paving bricks that lead to the Visitor Centre.
Mbhazima Shilowa at the Maropeng site during its construction.
If you would like to see more pictures of Maropeng, visit our Flickr group or our Facebook fan page.