Shrine of Remembrance, Melbourne (must see)

The Shrine of Remembrance at the King’s Domain in Melbourne was built following World War I as a constant reminder of all those Australians who fought and perished in the “Great War”. During WWI around 119,000 Victorians enlisted to defend king and country. Of the 89,000 who served abroad, around 19,000 were killed and buried in distant graves. The Shrine of Remembrance was built as a physical reminder and memorial to a grieving state and nation. Following several years of debate and contention over the design and form of the memorial, the foundation stone was laid on 11 November 1927. The shrine was officially dedicated on Remembrance Day, 1934 by the Duke of Gloucester before a crowd of around 300,000.

Following World War II a forecourt was added and this was dedicated by Queen Elizabeth II on her visit to Australia in 1954. The façade of the shrine is inspired by the Mausoleum of Maussollos at Halicarnassus and the Parthenon in Athens. Inside the shrine, the Stone of Remembrance is sunken so that visitors must bow their heads in order to read the inscription. In the Crypt there is a bronze statue of a father and son to represent the two generations that fought in the World War I and II.

Why You Should Visit:
Only a mile or two from central Melbourne, the atmosphere changes drastically when you get there.
Away from crowds and cars, this place is so quiet and peaceful, besides being very well maintained – both building and landscape.

Tip:
If you get a chance, catch one of the guided tours giving you further insight into the building and putting everything into perspective.