ANZAC War Memorial: A eulogy for all lost soldiers
Worth a visit for history and architecture buffs alike, the ANZAC War Memorial is a moving tribute to the sacrifices of the men and women who have died in war, particularly the soldiers of the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps. It also is one of Sydney’s more interesting Art Deco buildings.
Designed by Bruce Dellit and opened in 1934, the memorial finished first in a prestigious architectural competition of its day.
The memorial is located in the middle of the southern half of Hyde Park, near Liverpool Street. The interior contains a concise, free museum containing archival photos and other memorabilia from the wars in which Australia and New Zealand have been involved.
The memorial is clad in pink granite and displays a typical Art Deco “wedding cake”-style design. Around the outside are a number of detailed bronze friezes and 20 stone sculptural figures representing military personnel. The inside is faced in white marble and features a domed ceiling with 120,000 gold stars -- one for each of New South Wales’ military volunteers during World War I.
Inside the memorial, the centrepiece is Rayner Hoff’s monumental bronze sculpture of a mortally wounded young soldier, draped over his shield and sword in a crucifixion pose. He is held by three female figures representing his mother, sister and wife. The male figure’s nudity was considered shocking at the time of the monument’s opening.
Pine trees around the memorial were grown from seeds gathered at Gallipoli, Turkey, where ANZAC troops fought during World War I, from April 25, 1915, to Jan. 9, 1916. Significantly, ANZAC Day is April 25 annually.
HelloSydney Tip: The ANZAC War Memorial makes a particularly beautiful photo when viewed from the north, across the Pool of Reflection, especially when it is illuminated at night.
Posted by Fiona Davies
