Voortrekker Monument

Large numbers of the ancestors of the Afrikaner people demonstrated their discontent with the British authorities in the Cape by leaving the colony permanently at the start of the 19th century. Seeking their freedom and surrounded by great danger, they traveled deep into the interior of southern Africa between 1834 and 1854. This was the Great Trek. The trek parties who took part in it were known as the Voortrekkers.

The Voortrekker Monument, designed in honour of the Voortrekkers by the architect Gerard Moerdijk, was inaugurated on a hill south of Pretoria on 16 December 1949. Traditional African symbols were used as inspiration in certain facets on the façade and exterior of the building.

The Hall of Heroes contains one of the world’s longest historical marble friezes. It reflects the experiences of the Voortrekkers during the Great Trek. On the lower level is the Cenotaph Hall containing the central cenotaph, historical flags and objects of cultural and historical value. A tapestry with more than three million stitches depicts the story of the women and children during the Great Trek and a huge painting by W.H. Coetzer depicts the trek over the Drakensberg Mountain. The Voortrekker Monument museum is in the basement with information panels and an interesting collection of cultural and historical objects dating from the Voortrekker era.

More adventurous visitors can reach the top level of the Monument by stairway or by elevator where a breathtaking view of Pretoria will greet them.

Business Hours: (Monday to Sunday)

• 1 May - 31 Aug: 08:00-17:00

• 1 Sep - 30 April: 08:00-18:00