Robben Island Isle of the ExilesHigh-security prison for political prisoners; before the dissolution of political prisoners; 1991.From 1939 Robben Island served as a military base; during the Second World War; the island was built by the English to a fortress. In 1961 it became a prison island again. South Africa interned in the period of apartheid mainly political prisoners; but also criminals. In 1991; the high-security prison for political prisoners was dissolved; and in 1996 the section for ordinary criminals. Since the beginning of 1997 Robben Island has been open for visits.Aerial view Robben Island. In the background the South African mainland with Cape Town and Table Mountain.Photo; 1991.