Die Afrikaanse Taalmuseum

The Taalmuseum in Pastorie Avenue, Paarl

The museum’s exhibits will inform you about the history and diversity of Afrikaans, the mother tongue of almost 7 million South Africans.

Travel back in time
The museum is situated in the original house of Gideon Malherbe, part of which is a house museum. It’s not only the wallpaper that will intrigue you; original furniture from the 19^th century will take you back to the era of secret meetings and families of 16 children.

Printing: then and now
Die Genootskap van Regte Afrikaners (Association of True Afrikaners) was established in this house on 14 August 1875. The museum is home to the printing press on which Die Afrikaanse Patriot, the first Afrikaans newspaper, was printed.

The first documents
Did you know that Afrikaans in Arabic script was one of the earliest forms of written Afrikaans? Come and discover how Abu Bakr Effendi and others adapted the Arabic alphabet to write Afrikaans.

Exhibitions
Our interactive exhibits give an overview of the roots, varieties and other aspects of Afrikaans. What is the origin of the word “piesang” (banana)? Listen to people – from Mitchell’s Plain to Namaqualand –speak Afrikaans. Trace the language through its song, from rieldans to rap. *Guided tours are offered for groups. Booking essential.

Educational and fun
We promise an unforgettable outing for learners of all ages. Educators are offered a choice of curriculum-based educational programmes, which include work sheets. Special programmes are held on commemorative days such as Language Day and Museum Day.

Oom Gideon se Winkel
Fancy some gifts for everyone back home? Support our shop where you’ll find postcards, selected Afrikaans books , T-shirts with Afrikaans sayings, and souvenirs.

Research Centre
Our reading room is open to the public by appointment. Our researcher will assist in finding all relevant documents, or can do the entire project for you.