Wellington Cenotaph, War memorial in Wellington, New Zealand.
The Wellington Cenotaph stands at the intersection of Lambton Quay and Bowen Street, featuring a granite base, marble viewing room, and bronze statuary. The structure was designed by architect Richard Gross in collaboration with the firm Aimer, Draffin, and Grierson.
The memorial was built between 1929 and 1931, during a period of global reflection on the consequences of the First World War. Its construction shaped Wellington's identity in the 20th century as a place to honor those lost in conflict.
The central bronze figure represents The Will to Peace, showing Pegasus rising toward the heavens while rejecting war artifacts below. This imagery shapes how visitors experience the memorial and its message of hope overcoming conflict.
The memorial is located at a prominent spot in central Wellington and is easily accessible on foot. The site is especially visited during commemorative holidays, though it remains open to visitors year-round for viewing.
A time capsule containing items from 1929 remains buried beneath the foundation stone, placed there by Governor-General Sir Charles Fergusson. This hidden collection holds memories from the moment of dedication and offers a snapshot of that era.
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