Amazwi South African Museum of Literature has a mandate to collect literary artefacts from all the linguistic communities of South Africa. South Africa’s literary heritage is a national asset. It spans centuries and its excellence is expressed in a diversity of voices and forms. It is Amazwi’s privilege to be the custodian of this heritage.
Amazwi’s Museums
Amazwi cares for three museums. The South African Museum of Literature is in Makhanda,and is Amazwi's headquarters. Olive Schreiner House is in Nxuba (formerly Cradock) and was once the home of renowned author Olive Schreiner. The House has exhibitions on her life and work. The Eastern Star Gallery is also in Makhanda. It houses a collection of 19th century printing equipment. 
Olive Schreiner House Museum holds exhibitions explore the life and work of Olive Schreiner, the renowned author of The Story of an African Farm. Schreiner lived in the house for some time in her youth, and felt a strong personal connection to Cradock.
New exhibitions were installed in the House in June 2026, and are waiting for your visit!
The Eastern Star Museum gets its name from a newspaper that was established in Makhanda (then Grahamstown in 1871. The Eastern Star newspaper was the forerunner to today’s Star newspaper.
AMAZWI offers state-of-the-art facilities which include the Library Archives, the JM Coetzee Reading Room, the Ampitheatre and the Auditorium.
Amazwi’s exhibitions, publications, educational activities and special events aim to promote awareness
and enjoyment of South Africa’s rich and diverse literary heritage.
Embark on a journey like no other with our immersive Online Audio Tour collection, where each soundbite paints a vivid picture and unlocks the hidden stories behind every exhibit.
Step into a world of excitement and discovery with our Events section, where every occasion promises unforgettable experiences and meaningful connections.
Dive into the latest updates and stories shaping our world in the News section, where information meets insight and knowledge unfolds.
Help us conserve and promote the literatures of all of South Africa’s
official languages.
