Swaziland Museums and Art Galleries

(Swaziland, SZ, Southern Africa)

Swaziland only has one museum of note, namely the National Museum situated in Lobamba. When it comes to art galleries, however, Swaziland is much better provided for.

These are mostly privately-owned and showcase the work of local artists through exhibitions. The best-known of Swaziland's galleries are Guava Gallery and the Indingilizi Art and Craft Gallery. If you are paying a trip to Piggs Peak, then you may also like to consider visiting the Peak Craft Centre, which is to be found just a short distance from the Orion Piggs Peak Hotel and is known for its wealth of traditional handicrafts.

Swaziland National Museum

Address: Lobamba, Swaziland, SZ, Africa
Tel: +268 2416 1278
The National Museum was founded in 1972. Located within the Royal Area of Lobamba, this cultural attraction is a must-see for those keen to find out more about the country's past. Numerous ethnographic exhibits are on display. There is also a natural history section, which has been open since 1991 and includes dioramas of the Mantenga Falls, as well as the Highveld and Lowveld areas of Swaziland. A showroom is home to three royal cars once used by King Sobhuza II. There is also a library boasting an excellent collection of historic books, as well as an authentic 'beehive' village and an interesting photography section.
Open hours: daily - 09:00 to 17:00
Admission: charge, discounts available for children

Guava Gallery

Address: Mantenga, Ezulwini Valley, Swaziland, SZ, Africa
Tel: +268 2416 1343
Located in Mantenga and on the road leading towards the Mantenga Cultural Village, the Guava Gallery has been exhibiting the work of local artists since 2006. Exhibitions change on a monthly basis and cover a wide range of themes, with pieces ranging from photographs and paintings to sculptures and jewellery. The sweeping countryside views certainly add to the overall appeal.
Open hours: Tuesday to Saturday - 09:00 to 17:00, Sunday - 10:00 to 17:00
Admission: free

Indingilizi Art and Craft Gallery

Address: 112 Dzeliwe Street, Mbabane, Swaziland, SZ, Africa
Tel: +268 2404 6213
The Indingilizi Art Gallery stands in central Mbabane, where it first opened its doors to the public in the early 1980s. Since then, it has become a popular commercial venue with a strong reputation, staging regular exhibitions that feature local artists' work as well as that of other African countries. Expect to find contemporary canvasses, wooden sculptures, various hand-painted handicrafts, beadwork, traditional ceramics and ethnic jewellery. Holiday makers wishing to make a purchase will be pleased to hear that the gallery is happy to post goods by airmail, after carefully packing them first. Should you require a bite to eat, the courtyard is home to a on-site restaurant serving up tasty African food.
Open hours: Monday to Friday - 08:00 to 17:00, Saturday - 08:30 to 13:00
Admission: free