Cape Town - Always wanted to visit Robben Island, especially Nelson Mandela’s cell, but unable to find the time or money?
Now, thanks to the digital world and the launch on Tuesday of its first spot on Google Maps, you can finally experience a bird’s-eye view of historic Robben Island from the comfort of your own home.
The collaborative initiative by Google and Robben Island Museum produced a virtual guided tour of the island that includes a virtual visit to Nelson Mandela’s cell and Robert Sobukwe’s house.
It includes side-bar imagery of a former Robben Island prisoner narrating the historical journey for the user.
Country Google director Luke Mckend said the virtual guide demonstrated how technology could help people tell their life stories on the island long after they are gone.
“It is a fantastic way to give access to people who might never be able to visit Robben Island. This makes it possible to show others how important Robben Island is. The island is a symbol of South Africa’s fight for freedom.
“We’re excited about helping people learn more about this heritage and explore the island from any device, anywhere in the world,” he said.
Victor Tharage, deputy director general for Policy and Knowledge Services, said the initiative would boost South Africa’s tourism industry, which employs 655 000 people.
“These people are employed because of places like Robben Island and this is significant to the country. It is a place of pilgrimage for humanity and we are showing that South Africa is open to the world.”
Cape Times