Voortrekker Monument — Attraction in Tshwane Ward 59

The Voortrekker Monument stands as a powerful testament to a pivotal chapter in South African history, and my recent visit was both enriching and thought-provoking. The sheer architectural grandeur is undeniable; the imposing granite structure, with its intricate friezes and symbolic details, commands attention and respect. It's a masterclass in monumental design, evoking a sense of solemnity and historical weight. Beyond the aesthetics, the monument offers a comprehensive glimpse into the Voortrekker narrative. The Hall of Heroes, with its stunning marble panels, provides a poignant visual representation of their journey. The Cenotaph, illuminated by a shaft of sunlight precisely at midday on the Day of the Vow, creates an almost ethereal atmosphere, fostering a moment of reflection. While the monument’s historical context is complex and often debated, it undeniably serves as a significant cultural landmark. The well-maintained grounds and informative exhibits allowed for a deeper understanding of the period. I found the experience to be both engaging and educational. Despite the serious nature of the historical narrative, I left with a sense of having experienced an important piece of South African heritage. The monument is a must-see for anyone interested in the...

My favourite monument! The VTK and FAK visibly always work extremely hard to constantly improve this monument and its offerings.

The photos of the monument and surrounds hardly do it any justice - seeing its magnificence in person is a sight and feeling to behold! Be sure to ask around about the meanings of things at the monument, as there are quite a lot of positive hidden meanings to things (hint e.g., ask about the "kraal").

The monument grounds are always kept in pristine condition, which is absolutely impressive for the country it is in. Parking is also very convenient, but do note that a symbolic element of the monument is a massive staircase (1 inside, 1 outside). There is wheelchair access to most areas as far as I could tell, but some shorter flights of stairs may not have alternatives and may require assistance. The museum does have lifts inside, so wheelchair users are indeed able to go up to see the crenellations.

The monument has new exhibitions, of which one is a restored ox wagon that was part of the Groot Trek and the Bloodrivier battle. Apparently a borderline marvel of its time, superior in both workmanship and aesthetic to some...

This majestic building was built in honour of and as a memorial to the Voortrekkers. The dream of the architect Gerard Moerdijk (1890 - 1958), was to design a Monument which "had to stand as a memorial for a thousand years and longer to explain the history and significance of the Great Trek to the generations to come." Deservedly, the Voortrekker Monument is regarded as Moerdijk's magnum opus. Every 16 December, Africakaners (Descendants of the voortrkkers) commerate this date a holy to them, due to the fact that their ancestors had vow to God if he let them win the war against the mighty Zulu empire back then, henceforth going forward them and their generations to come will not only build the church for God, but as well regards this day of the 16 December 1838 as sacred to them forever. Eventually they won the war against the Zulu at the blood river and also built the Church of covenant in Petermarizburg... It is a great sacrifice from them to go over the Drakensbur mountain just because they didn't want to submit to the British rules in the...