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Blue Plaque Sites

South African Institute for Medical Research

Table of Contents

About South African Institute for Medical Research

Developed in cooperation with the Johannesburg Heritage Foundation

Address

Hospital Street Braamfontein. Stand 4354 Johannesburg
October 2021

Inscription

SOUTH AFRICAN INSTITUTE FOR MEDICAL RESEARCH The National Health Laboratory Service, previously known as The South African Institute for Medical Research, was established in 1912 to research the prevention and treatment of human disease. The building was designed by Baker & Fleming in the English Renaissance style, with tall windows, quadrangles and a landmark dome-capped tower, and built by John Barrow & Co. in 1913. The institute has made a substantial contribution to the fight against pneumonia, malaria and cancer.

Photo courtesy: Kabelo Mokoena (Sunday Times)

Explore Joburg

A culmination of research gathered over many years, the Online Johannesburg Heritage Register is being launched on Nelson Mandela Day 18 July 2025.

Among the many heritage sites featured is Chancellor House, the downtown offices of Mandela and Tambo Attorneys in the 1950s. After having been vacant and shuttered for more than a decade, this iconic building is being revived and brought to life once again as offices for the Community Development Department, which oversees the City’s Arts, Culture & Heritage Services.

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