Wellington Cenotaph facts for kids
The Wellington Cenotaph is a special monument in Wellington, New Zealand. It is also known as the Wellington Citizens' War Memorial. This important memorial remembers the brave New Zealanders who lost their lives in World War I and World War II.
It was officially revealed on Anzac Day, April 25, 1931. You can find it right near the New Zealand Parliament Buildings, where Lambton Quay and Bowen Street meet. The Cenotaph is a key place for Anzac Day events in Wellington.
What the Cenotaph Looks Like
The Wellington Cenotaph has two main parts, like wings. These wings are decorated with special carvings called relief sculptures. On top of the memorial, there is a bronze statue of a figure riding a horse.
Later, more features were added to remember World War II. These include two large bronze lions and a series of bronze pictures called friezes. These additions make the memorial even more detailed and meaningful.
History and Importance
The Cenotaph was built to honor the soldiers who fought for New Zealand. It was first dedicated to those who died in World War I. Later, it was also made to remember those who died in World War II.
On March 18, 1982, the Cenotaph was recognized as a very important historic place. It was given a Category I listing by Heritage New Zealand. This means it is a place of great historical value and is protected.
Recent Upgrades
In 2013, new plans were announced to improve the area around the Cenotaph. These plans included building a new staircase and a water feature leading up to the Parliament Buildings. The project also involved fixing the surface of the Cenotaph itself.
A new open space was created to make the area better for ceremonies. In 2015, the main Anzac Day ceremony in Wellington, where people lay wreaths, was held at the newly upgraded National War Memorial.
See also
In Spanish: Cenotafio de Wellington para niños
