The Union Buildings serve as the official seat of the South African government and the office of the President. Designed by architect Herbert Baker in 1913, the neoclassical structure with Cape Dutch influences stretches 285 meters across Meintjieskop hill, featuring terraced gardens and the iconic Nelson Mandela statue. The site witnessed the inauguration of the first democratically elected president in 1994. The gardens are open to the public free of charge, offering panoramic views across Pretoria and serving as a popular gathering spot.