TRAVEL
A Symbol of Afrikaner Nationalism: The Monolithic Voortrekker Monument
One of the most controversial and polarizing structures” in South Africa due to its apartheid-era symbolism. Without a doubt a thoughtful piece of art with much of symbolism.
Is there any controversy over the remains of the colonies of the Southern Part of Africa? When I heard about the Voortrekker Monument and its significance, I decided to visit.
In the Deep South United States, there is a lot of controversy about Confederate monuments. Over the past few years, there have been some high-profile removals of Confederate statues and monuments. I’ve wondered how South Africans regard the legacy of the Voortrekker Monument.
I’m not sure how accurate the Voortrekker Monument is compared to the US Confederate monuments. I was only curious. Although the Voortrekkers aren’t quite as closely associated with slavery as the Confederacy- Arguably, the Dutch (and others) colonists resented British rule from the get-go. Slavery and labour laws were significant but not the only reasons for the Great Trek.
In reality, the Brits weren’t a little better regarding the treatment of the black population, and they very much laid the foundation for the Apartheid system. Some people view Afrikaner nationalism as inherently racist and harking back to the Apartheid days.
It’s a complex issue. Ironically some will say that Afrikaner nationalism was the first decent resistance against colonialism.
I went to the Voortrekker Monument, eagerly anticipating learning more about South African history. As I approach, I can’t help but be impressed by its imposing size. I climb the steps and enter the Monument, taking in the intricate details carved into its surface. The Voortrekker Monument is an impressive sight to behold. It stands over 40 meters tall and is made from light-coloured granite.
There are 64 steps leading up to the main hall, which houses several historical artefacts related to the Voortrekkers.
The most notable feature of the Monument is the Bronze/Marble frieze, which depicts the history of the Voortrekkers in great detail.
Walking through the Monument, I felt a sense of admiration for these brave souls who journeyed across the continent centuries ago. Their determination and hard work are evident in this impressive structure.
The Origins of the Voortrekkers
In 1833, just three years after Britain had seized control of the Dutch Cape Colony from the Netherlands, a group of Afrikaners (descendants of Dutch settlers) disillusioned with British rule decided to trek northwards into the interior of Southern Africa. This group, which came to be known as the Voortrekkers, established several independent republics in what is now South Africa, Lesotho, and Zimbabwe.
Did You Know?
The granite frieze in the Voortrekker Monument is the largest in the world.
The Voortrekker Monument was erected to commemorate this journey and these settlements — which were eventually annexed by Britain as part of its greater plan to control all of Southern Africa. For many Afrikaners, the Voortrekkers are heroes who bravely fought against overwhelming odds to preserve their language and culture against British oppression.
The Design and Construction of the Voortrekker Monument
Built to commemorate the Great trek of the Voortrekkers. Designed by renowned architect Gerard Moerdijk, the Voortrekker Monument is situated on a hilltop overlooking Pretoria (Formerly known as Tshwane).
Consists of two walls made out of granite blocks that converge at a central point. These walls are inscribed with the names of every man, woman, and child participating in the Great Trek.
What is THE GREAT TREK?
Slavery was abolished throughout the British Empire in 1834. This was highly unpopular among the Boers and became the focal point of widespread discontent. Thousands of Boers began moving from the Cape in late 1835 in what is now known as the Great Trek.
They dispersed across the border, most opting to travel either into the central heartland or northeast into present-day KwaZulu-Natal. The entrance of many settlers alarmed the Zulu monarch, Dingane. He massacred one group led by Piet Retief and ambushed another before being defeated at Blood River on December 16, 1838.
Shortly after, the British annexed what the Boers called Natalia, causing them to trek again into the interior to the areas that were to become the Boer republics of the Orange Free State and Transvaal.
In 1938, construction on the Monument began. However, due to World War II and a shortage of materials, work on the structure was halted and completed in 1949. In 1963, an eternal flame was added to the Monument to honour those who had died during South Africa’s various wars.
The Monument is a cenotaph, with a closed chamber underneath housing the Hall of Heroes. The wall represents the symbolic protection of the Monument. The Monument is circled by 64 ox-wagons representing the laager at Blood River.
The outside of the Monument is also covered in murals depicting scenes from the history of the Afrikaner people.
The Woman and Child statue in front of the Monument symbolises the participation and role women and children played during the Great Trek. This image was designed by the well-known sculptor Anton van Wouw. This statue is the first public statue in the history of South Africa to be cast in bronze.
Inside is a circular museum with displays about the Voortrekkers and their journey.
Another notable element of the Monument is the massive statue of Voortrekker commanders constructed at the Monument’s 90-degree angle.
Do you know?
It is not commonly known that the Italians were involved in constructing the Voortrekker Monument. Apart from the initial construction, till after the placing of the cornerstone in 1938 was done by an Italian firm, Italians were involved with the construction of the larger wall and casting of the Anton van Wouw statue of the woman and children in front of the Monument.
Furthermore, the marble frieze was chiselled from Italian marble in Italy.
The Significance of the Voortrekker Monument Today
For many white South Africans, the Voortrekker Monument symbolises Afrikaner heritage and nationalism. Every year on December 16 — the anniversary of the Battle of Blood River — tens of thousands of Afrikaners gather at the Monument to lay wreaths and sing patriotic songs.
In recent years, however, there has been growing criticism of these events as they are often seen as celebrating Afrikaans’ hegemony over other languages and cultures in South Africa.
The Voortrekker Monument is more than just a historical monument; it’s also a popular tourist attraction. Every year, hundreds of thousands of people visit the Monument to learn about its history and take in its impressive architecture. If you’re ever in Pretoria, add the Voortrekker Monument to your list of must-see attractions!
What are some of the features of the monument that visitors can enjoy today?
I walked up the long, winding pathway to the top of the Monument. As I reached the top, I was treated to a stunning view of the cityscape below. After admiring the view for a few moments, I turned my attention to the other features of the Monument.
There are various exhibits and activities on offer. There were beautiful gardens and grounds where guests could wander around. And if you’re feeling adventurous, you can camp out overnight on the grounds!
Apart from the massive size of the Monument, two elements, in particular, make this Monument interesting to me: the Historic frieze and the Cenotaph. Inside the Monument, there is also a museum that tells the story of the Afrikaner. Other highlights include the Hall of Heroes, where the names of famous Afrikaners are inscribed, and the Eternal Flame, which burns in memory of those who lost their lives in battle.
There are plans to develop the Voortrekker Monument into a world-class heritage site. This will include the construction of a new museum, which will tell the story of the Voortrekkers in more detail. There are also plans to upgrade the existing facilities and create more green spaces on the site. These developments will ensure that the Voortrekker Monument remains integral to South Africa’s history and heritage for many years.
Whether you’re interested in history or simply want to enjoy some breathtaking views, the Voortrekker Monument is well worth a visit.
The Voortrekker Monument is a must-see for anyone visiting Pretoria, South Africa. It’s a beautiful structure that commemorates an important moment in South African history.
Be sure to add it to your list of things to see and do while you’re in town!
