Castle Kyalami - Arthurian whimsy on the Highveld

The JHF is pleased to invite you to join us on a rare guided tour of Castle Kyalami, the Johannesburg headquarters of the Church of Scientology, where we will be hosted by Luc Du Bois, a senior representative of the church in Johannesburg.

Although Castle Kyalami is not strictly a heritage building because of its relatively recent date of construction, it is an intriguing landmark and an object of fascination for anyone interested in architecture and Johannesburg's built environment.

Conceived as a grand private residence in the early 1990s, the castle is a romantic vision of a medieval European castle transplanted to the central Highveld of the Witwatersrand. Complete with towers, battlements, parapets, courtyards and imposing stone walls, it is one of the most unusual domestic buildings in South Africa and a striking example of late twentieth-century historicist design.

From the castle's parapets there are panoramic views across the Kyalami smallholdings and surrounding residential estates, extending to the Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit and Leeuwkop Prison. The commanding outlook reinforces the illusion of a fortified hilltop castle overlooking its domain.

Following its acquisition by the Church of Scientology, the property has been meticulously maintained and adapted as an administrative and training centre.

The tour will be led by Wade and Yvonne Venter, together with Luc Du Bois, who will introduce the history of Castle Kyalami, explain its present-day role, and conduct us through the principal rooms and public areas of this remarkable building.

This is a rare opportunity to explore the interior of one of Johannesburg's most distinctive private landmarks - an experience that is unlikely to be repeated for some time. Book soon as space is limited!

As this is a secure facility, only guests who have booked and supplied their ID number and vehicle registration details will be admitted through the security gate. Please ensure that you bring identification with you on the day. Unfortunately, no unregistered visitors can be accommodated.