A restored heritage site offering panoramic views of Nelson Mandela Bay officially opened to the public today, marking the culmination of extensive restoration work at the former St Peter’s Anglican Church in South End.
The site, located in the historic heart of South End in Gqeberha, houses the ruins of the former St Peter’s Anglican Church, which remain as a lasting reminder for generations of families and their descendants.
For decades, it stood as a quiet witness to the city’s evolution before being brought back to life through careful planning and restoration work by the Mandela Bay Development Agency (MBDA), an entity of the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality.
The ceremonial opening was attended by stakeholders representing generations who lived in the area, national and local government representatives, civil society leaders and community representatives, celebrating the legacy of South End and the role St Peter’s played as a cornerstone of the community
National Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture Gayton McKenzie delivered the keynote address emphasising the site’s significance as a symbol of resilience and collective memory.
“The story of St Peter’s Rainbow Village is not just about a place; it is about the enduring spirit of a people, the resilience in the face of adversity and the power of collective memory to connect generations across time,” McKenzie told the gathering.
“This village forms an integral part of our nation’s rich tapestry, reminding us not only of the painful chapters of our past but also of our enduring hope for a future grounded in the values of Ubuntu.”
McKenzie elaborated on Ubuntu as a fundamental principle calling upon South Africans to recognise one another’s humanity: “Ubuntu teaches us that our very being is intertwined with the lives of those around us.”
He pointed out the site’s transformation: “From pain, we have created hope. What was once a space marked by hardship and loss, we have transformed into a site of meaning, pride and inspiration.
“St Peter’s Rainbow Village stands as a testament to resilience, memory, and renewal—a place where history is honoured, communities are celebrated, and future generations are invited to gather, reflect and be uplifted.”
Meanwhile Deputy Executive Mayor of Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality Gary van Niekerk shared the human dimension of the restoration project.
“St Peter’s Rainbow Village is not only about bricks, history, or preservation – it is about people,” van Niekerk said. “It is about honouring the lives and stories of those who walked these streets, worshipped in this church and built a community of love and respect despite the barriers imposed on them.”
He described the site as serving a dual purpose: “This village is both a memorial and a promise -a memorial to the sacrifices of the past, and a promise to future generations that unity, dignity and belonging will always have a home here.
“Today, as we open St Peter’s Rainbow Village, we do more than mark a ceremonial moment. We create a living space of gathering, reflection and inspiration for all who enter,” he stated.
Concluding his address, van Niekerk called upon visitors to remember their responsibility: “Let it remind us of our duty – to remember, to honour and to build a future that is inclusive, compassionate, and united. May this village continue to uplift our city, connect our people, and preserve the stories that must never be forgotten.”
Restoration and history
The history of South End is characterised by a once-united, multi-racial community that fell victim to the forced removals of the 1960s. The project forms part of the MBDA’s broader commitment to human-centred urban renewal that respects the city’s history.
The MBDA’s restoration work included structural rehabilitation, landscaping and the creation of public amenities designed to support inclusive use. Special care was taken to preserve the architectural character of the original building whilst introducing new elements such as a viewing deck, seating area and a small amphitheatre.
“This is a place where history meets hope,” said Anele Qaba, Chief Executive Officer of the MBDA. “St Peter’s Rainbow Village is a testament to what’s possible when we invest in spaces that bring people together.”
He added that the facility would offer visitors a unique opportunity to explore and appreciate the history and heritage that binds many communities in Nelson Mandela Bay, with the site restored to preserve the memory of South End.
“By preserving the legacy of St Peter’s, we keep the vision of unity alive, inspiring pride and fostering a deep connection to our cultural heritage,” Qaba concluded.
The ceremonial opening marked the culmination of extensive restoration work that has transformed the former St Peter’s Anglican Church site into a community space that honours the memory of South End’s displaced residents whilst creating new opportunities for unity and reflection.
Walkways throughout the site provide opportunities for guided tours celebrating South End’s rich history and culture. An on-site kiosk will provide coffee and refreshments to the public. Designed as an outdoor event space, it can accommodate between 50 and 100 people.
The site is secured around the clock by MBDA-contracted security personnel and entry is free to the public.
Opening hours
St Peter’s Rainbow Village will be open to the public on weekdays from 08:00 to 16:00 and on Saturdays and public holidays from 10:00 to 15:00.
The village welcomes walking clubs, families, schools and social groups to explore its tranquil walkways, offering a safe and welcoming environment for informal gatherings, educational visits and cultural programming.
You must be logged in to post a comment.