Church Square
Church Square in central Pretoria was the site of the city’s first church, built in 1855. During its early years, the square was used as a marketplace and sports field.
Today Church Square is a relaxing spot for visitors who adore 19th-century and early 20th-century architecture, as well as those who just want to enjoy a day out with the family. It is a great place for families to sit under beautiful Jacaranda trees and feed the pigeons on a hot summer afternoon on the well-manicured lawn.
A statue of former president Paul Kruger at Church Square, Pretoria. Photo courtesy Gauteng Tourism Authority
The square is surrounded by numerous historical buildings, including the Palace of Justice where former president Nelson Mandela and several of his African National Congress comrades were charged and tried for treason during the infamous Rivonia Trial. Also nearby is the Old Capitol Theatre, the Netherlands Banking Building (home to the offices to Tshwane Tourism) and the post office.
Former president Paul Kruger’s large bronze statue sits at the centre of the Square. Wealthy industrialist Sammy Marks commissioned Anton van Wouw to sculpt it in 1896.
The bronze statue was unveiled on Church Square in October 1954 by former prime minister DF Malan after it had earlier been installed in front of Princes Park and later placed in front of the Pretoria Station.
The square’s main attraction is a weekly one-hour ceremonial parade held every Wednesday between 09h30 and 10h30. The parades are done by members of the National Ceremonial Guard and accompanied by a South African military band. The procession s ends with the raising of the national flag and municipal flag to the sound of the national anthem.