The Shrine of Remembrance in Melbourne is located within the grounds of the Royal Botanic Gardens and I can't think of a place more beautiful and serene for reflection and remembrance. The spaciousness and vastness of the place gave it a surreal, calm atmosphere and to think that it is quite near the tourist bustling area of the National Art Gallery.
The shrine was first built as a remembrance to sons of Victoria who have died serving their country in the first Word War (1914-1918). The great pillars of the Shrine was inspired by the Parthenon in Greece with architectural features such as chariot sculptures, promenades giving visitors a feeling of awe yet solitude. Inscribed on one of the walls
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LET ALL MEN KNOW THAT THIS IS HOLY GROUND. THIS SHRINE ESTABLISHED IN THE HEARTS OF MEN AS ON THE SOLID EARTH COMMEMORATES A PEOPLES FORTITUDE AND SACRIFICE. YE THEREFORE THAT COME AFTER GIVE REMEMBRANCE. |
Within the heart of the shrine lies a stone engraved with the words "Greater Love Hath No Man." On 11 November at 11am each year, a ray of light goes through an aperture on the roof, shining precisely on the word "Love". This marks the moment in 1918 when the Armistice was signed signifying the end of the hostilities of World War One.
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