The controversial anatomical show has been seen by more than 35million people in 70 cities around the world. It consists of 200 specimens preserved by "plastination".

Plastination was invented by German anatomist Gunther von Hagens in 1977.

The organisers, Blue Ocean Exhibitions, said: "This life-changing exhibition will resonate with every South African, regardless of age, education or religion."

The exhibition is made possible by a body-donation programme.

The organisers say it showcases the "complexity, resilience and vulnerability of the human body through anatomical studies of the body in distress, disease and optimal health".

Von Hagens said he hoped the exhibition would encourage people to live with "inspiration every day throughout their lives".

"The older I get, the more I realise that death is normal and that it is life that is exceptional," said Von Hagens.

Not everyone is looking forward to the expo.

Nokuzola Mndende, director of the Icamagu Institute, which promotes African traditional religion, said it was "madness".

"That is totally against African culture," Mndende said.

"You cannot showcase a corpse in whatever form.

"I'm shocked that our government can allow it.

"South Africa should not be where abnormal things are dumped in the name of democracy."

Nabeweya Malick, spokesman for the Muslim Judicial Council, said she did not believe a human body should be displayed for other than medical purposes.

"I am so shocked, I can't believe it," said Malick. "I don't know if most people would want to go because personally I wouldn't. We have so much respect for the human body.

"I think a normal person will be very offended."

The exhibition will open on Wednesday.