Justice and constitutional development minister Penuell Maduna today officially re-opened the newly refurbished Palace of Justice building in Pretoria.

The building, well-known for being the venue for the historical Rivonia Trial involving former President Nelson Mandela, was refurbished at a cost of R40-million, after a decision to renovate it was taken in 1997.

The entire interior of the building has been renovated except the holding cells underground where Madiba was kept during the trial.

The walls in the cell still have old messages left by the prisoners who were part of the Rivonia Trial as well as other political prisoners.

During the apartheid era, the building was also used for judiciary meetings by the various law professions.

Speaking at the official re-opening of the building today, Minister Maduna promised to give his un-divided support to the people who would be working there.

'Although the building evokes mixed feelings to most people, we felt we needed to refurbish it instead of demolishing it because of its historical significance,' said Minister Maduna.

Also speaking at the same occasion was Chief Justice Arthur Chaskalson, who said he was glad that the glory of the building had been restored.

According to justice department spokesperson Kaizer Kganyago, the building might be used to hear high-profile criminal cases.

The building houses three criminal courts, six justice chambers and a library, the latter which will also boast a museum - BuaNews.