Huguenot Monument

Description

The Huguenot Monument situated at the end of the main street in Franschhoek, Western Cape, commemorates the settlement of French Huguenots in the region. The memorial consists of a semi-circular colonnade set in a beautifully manicured garden, three colossal arches that represent the Christian 'Holy Trinity' (father, son, and the holy spirit), sun of righteousness, and the cross of the Christian faith. The central female figure portrays religious freedom with a Bible in one hand and a broken chain in the other.

The Huguenot Monument in Franschhoek, Western Cape, is dedicated to the cultural influences that the Huguenots brought to the Cape colony during the 17th and 18th centuries. Designed by J.C Jongens and completed in 1945, the monument was officially inaugurated by Dr A.J van der Merwe in April 1948.

The Huguenot Memorial Museum

The Huguenot Memorial Museum alongside the monument depicts the history of the French Huguenots with exhibits including various tools used for wine making, clothes, materials relating to the indigenous Khoisan population of the time, and fynbos. There is also a wine cellar, wildflower garden, and a restaurant.

Bastile Festival

The Bastille Festival has officially moved its venue to the grounds of the Huguenot Monument as of 2014. Enjoy a day of wine tasting and delicious food with exceptional mountain views in July each year.