SA Buzzes Over Alleged Properties Owned by Church of Scientology

• The Church of Scientology has quietly acquired major properties in South Africa, including a castle and a high-rise building, sparking intrigue online
• L. Ron Hubbard’s early work in Johannesburg, from drafting constitutions to prison reform, laid the foundation for the church’s ongoing presence in the country
• The exclusive Kyalami Castle is now a spiritual retreat, inaccessible to the public, fueling conversations about wealth and secrecy in religious groups

From castles to historic homes, South Africans are discovering a side of Scientology they never knew existed.

South Africans are talking after @coolstorybru_za posted a viral video on 8 February 2026, revealing that the Church of Scientology owns several massive, lush properties in the country. The TikTok clip highlighted the church’s strong presence in South Africa, dating back to the 1960s. Founder L. Ron Hubbard lived in Johannesburg, and during his time in the country, he lived on Linksfield Ridge, authored a one-man, one-vote constitution, introduced a bill of rights, and even toured local prisons to implement new penal codes. The church continues to expand, purchasing landmark buildings and establishing new centres to accommodate growing Scientology groups.

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Beyond the historical connection, the church’s modern South African footprint includes some impressive properties. Notably, the Kyalami Castle, acquired from Planet Hotels in 2008, functions as one of six advanced organisations, offering a spiritual retreat complete with an auditorium, restaurant, café, swimming pool, braai-equipped gazebo, and an observation tower with panoramic views. Kyalami Castle, which also belongs to the church, recently underwent renovations reportedly worth billions.

Secretive Scientology estates revealed

The revelations by user @coolstorybru_za sparked widespread curiosity, partly because Scientology’s presence in South Africa remains both controversial and intriguing. Online discussions initially focused on the exclusivity of Kyalami Castle, the historic significance of L. Ron Hubbard’s Johannesburg home, and how the church has expanded its footprint in the country with relatively little mainstream attention.

However, following the viral interest, David Bloomberg from the Church of Scientology International’s Media Relations office provided additional context. According to Bloomberg, Castle Kyalami officially opened in 2019 and has since operated as a community hub, welcoming thousands of civic leaders, religious leaders, and members of the public. He stated that more than 31,000 South Africans have completed the church’s 19 'Tools for Life' courses, with seminars hosted weekly at the Castle.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Bloomberg added that Castle Kyalami served as a disaster response headquarters, mobilising hundreds of volunteers who assisted frontline communities. He also pointed to the documentary Operation: Do Something About It, which highlights relief efforts carried out in South Africa. The church emphasised that members of the public can access a visual tour of the property through its official website.

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In addition, Bloomberg clarified that four other Scientology churches have opened in South Africa in recent decades, including branches in the Eastern Cape (2025), Johannesburg North (2017), Pretoria (2013), and Johannesburg (2003). He noted that the religion’s ecclesiastical leader, David Miscavige, presided over each grand opening, with political and community leaders attending those events.

Here’s what Mzansi said

Johnpetergernaat said:

“I work with a company who are all Scientologists, and it is the best-run company I’ve dealt with and has the highest ethics. I knew a couple, now deceased, who never spoke with regret about being rescued from throwing away their money to Scientology, and they were halfway on the Bridge. I’ve watched the documentaries, and I have deep questions about the founder and the current leader. I don’t believe they should be referred to as a church, but rather as a development or education programme. I am concerned about the financial operations they enjoy due to their tax-exempt status. If they were truly giving back to the community, taxes would be the first way of doing this.”

Byrondavel said:

“I see this castle from Lonehill. Thanks for finally giving me details on it. 🙌🔥”

Chwayita_dlulane said:

“I know they have a bad reputation in America, but they actually do a lot of good work in SA, believe it or not.”

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Check out the Instagram video below:

3 Other Briefly News stories about churches

• A woman became a viral sensation after she made sure to show off a luxury brand in church, sparking laughter.
• A woman attending a church in Dobsonville left many South Africans stunned after showing that alcohol was allowed during the service.
• Outspoken poet Ntsiki Mazwai recently reacted to influencer Faith Nketsi's sultry church outfit, sparking reactions.

Source: Briefly News