Shop at Nelson Mandela Square: a tribute to a legend and a landmark

What would your ideal shopping destination look like? If you dream of exclusive shops, world-class dining, rich culture, and glorious art, Nelson Mandela Square ticks all the boxes. Set in the heart of Sandton, this vibrant hub is a must-visit for local residents and tourists alike. But there's more than shopping to look forward to. In keeping with its namesake, the centre famously pays tribute to Nelson Mandela, South Africa's beloved anti-apartheid activist, politician, and Nobel Peace Prize laureate, in exciting ways. Come take a stroll through the square and enjoy the pulse of this premiere retail and lifestyle destination. 

Explore a mall alive with history

Surprisingly, Nelson Mandela Square went by another name - Sandton Square. It first opened in 1994 (the first year of Mandela's presidency) and has become a shopping staple since. Covering 17 853m² of retail space, the Square attracts a staggering one million local and international visitors every month.

The designers gave Nelson Mandela Square a faux-Italian style with a European-styled piazza, evocative of St. Mark's Square in Venice. However, there's a distinct local influence that infuses this urban space with a unique character. African-style sculptures and statues have been added over the years, giving residents a chance to pause and enjoy some of the continent's dazzling artwork. 

Celebrate the life of Nelson Mandela

On its 10th anniversary in 2004, the shopping centre was renamed to its current namesake in honour of Nelson Mandela. A majestic six-metre bronze statue of the icon himself was unveiled in the piazza, where it attracts the attention of both local and international visitors. The statue, weighing approximately 2.5 tons, is a tribute to the man who is a symbol of freedom and African pride. 

The mall also has introduced a one-metre-tall replica statue aimed at the visually impaired. In 2020, wax statues of Mandela and struggle stalwart Winnie Madikizela-Mandela created by sculptor Lungelo Gumede were also added. You can also pay a visit to the House of Mandela's flagship store at the mall.

Beyond physical acts, Nelson Mandela Square has donated to the Nelson Mandela Foundation's #Each1Feed1 campaign. The mall has also played host to Ladles of Love's record-breaking mosaic of Mandela made from 56 000 cans, later donated to communities in need.

Get in some retail therapy

Your shopping trip will always be a pleasure at Nelson Mandela Square. The mall boasts an eclectic mix of retail and lifestyle offerings catering to all your needs. For fashion, you can head to Fabiani, La Martina, or Geri. Pop into House D'luxe for home fragrance, body, and lifestyle accessories. The Sunglass Hut will help you with some on-trend eyewear. Complete the look with some fashionable footwear at Socrati, Castelo Shoe Shop, or Palazzo Pitti. Nelson Mandela Square delivers at every corner whether you're after banking facilities, health and beauty products, jewellery, or gifts. 

Gather around the table 

At Nelson Mandela Square, every meal is a celebration. The finest ingredients and best service can be savoured at some of the country's finest restaurants. Whether you're after a business lunch, romantic dinner, family lunch, or hearty breakfast, there's a dining spot perfect for your feasting pleasure. Some highlights include traditional Greek and Mediterranean food (Pappas On The Square), steaks and ribs (Trumps Grillhouse and Butchery), sushi and grills (The Bigmouth), American-style burgers (Hard Rock Cafe), and red meat and wine meals (The Butcher Shop). 

Soak in the culture and community

With regular events and exhibitions, there's always a reason to stop by Nelson Mandela Square. The Antique Fair offers two levels of collectables and a wealth of history, beauty, and charm. It has hosted screenings and industry events for the Joburg Film Festival. Art lovers have enjoyed some prestigious exhibitions like Colossal by sculptor Anton Smit. Theatre at the Square is a multi-award-winning theatre that presents nightly productions of local and international plays, musicals, comedies, youth theatre, jazz, and daytime classical lunch-hour concerts.

Be close to this popular amenity

Sandton residents are fortunate to have this stellar shopping centre a stone's throw away from their homes. Whether you want to shop, dine, or simply take in the sights and sounds of the city, you'll find that Nelson Mandela Square has something for everyone. Lew Geffen Sotheby's International Realty's property consultants in Sandton can help you find your ideal home close to the mall. View our properties for sale or properties to let, and get in touch today.