Last of the Prison - Constitution Court

 

This is the Constitution Court - the highest in the country.  The flag was handmade by some native women and given to the court.  The eleven judges sit in the top chairs - they have a rare South African cow hide in front of them - with different white markings - showing both unity and diversity.  The bricks are from part of the old prison that was torn down.  Notice the narrow windows that show outside of the room.  Our guide said this is to remind the judges that what they do doesn't just affect those in the room, but everyone outside also. 

Our guide at the court telling us about it.  

The logo of South Africa - justice courts used to be held under a large tree.  South Africa has 11 official languages and there are eleven people under the tree - and the center of the tree makes the South African flag.  

This is the foyer of the Constitution Court Building.  It has pillars representing tree trunks, and branches and leaves on the ceiling - representing the old way of justice courts being held under a large tree.  There are many windows showing the openness that should prevail in the government. 

There is an eternal flame in the front of the Constitution Court building - Nelson Mandela lit it in December of 2011. It has burned since - the Flame of Democracy.