The Amazing Ammazulu African Palace

Yesterday was a public holiday here in South Africa and I spent the morning at the incredible Ammazulu African Palace, a five star boutique hotel located in Kloof, Durban. And all I can say is... WOW!!! The entire building is a magical artwork celebrating the cultural heritage of KwaZulu-Natal.



The palace is the vision of Durban artist Peter Amm and it took almost 50 years to complete, starting when he was just 13 years old when his father gave him some money to purchase a small piece of land in Kloof. He grew indigenous plants and trees on the land and nurtured his dream of one day building his own house. 

The actual building of the palace began in 1998 and wherever possible recycled material was used - the carved doors at the entrance to the palace are from the Colonial Mutual's old art deco building in West Street, Durban. The decorated pillars inside (done by artist Jane du Rand) echo the two enormous orange pillars that flank the front entrance and include old electric transformers, upside down teacups and sieves in their designs. The giant steel guinea fowl outside has a head made up of a metal shopping trolley and two traffic lights. 

The inside of the palace is truly magical and is a visual feast!










Visiting the Ammazulu African Palace is by appointment only. We did the tour which was really great and gave us all the interesting information about the palace and it's artefacts. The cost is R75 and includes tea/coffee and a yummy snack (you must have a minimum of 10 people per booking).

Visit their website for more info www.ammazulupalace.com

Below are some more photos of this incredible place.














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