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Monument · Franschhoek, Cabo Ocidental
Huguenot Monument e Huguenot Memorial Museum
1948 monument to the French Huguenots at the end of Franschhoek's main street, with gardens and, beside it, the museum about the refugees who arrived at the Cape.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Huguenot Monument e Huguenot Memorial Museum
The Huguenots were French Protestants persecuted in France after 1685. A few hundred of them arrived at the Cape between 1688 and the early 18th century, brought by the Dutch Company, and were granted land in the valley that came to be called Franschhoek. They brought surnames such as du Toit, Joubert, de Villiers and Malherbe, common in the country to this day.
The monument stands at the end of the main street with the mountains behind. It was designed by architect J. C. Jongens, completed in 1945 and opened in 1948. Three arches represent the Trinity; in the center, a statue of a woman by sculptor Coert Steynberg holds a Bible and a broken chain, symbols of religious freedom. A sundial bears the names of the families and the ships.
Next to it, the Huguenot Memorial Museum tells the story of the persecution, the voyage and the settlement at the Cape, with documents, furniture, winemaking tools and valley life. The museum also shows the relationship with the khoikhoi and with the enslaved people who worked on the farms.
The rose garden around the monument recalls the rosewater that the Huguenots produced.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
From 1 hour to 1 hour and a half.
Best time
In the morning, with light striking the mountains behind the monument. In July, the village Bastille Day celebration usually takes place in the monument gardens.
How to get there
It is at the end of Huguenot Street, Franschhoek's main street, about 1 km from the village centre, on foot or by car.
Tip
Do the museum first to understand the history, then visit the monument and the garden.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Huguenot Monument e Huguenot Memorial Museum
Who were the Huguenots of Franschhoek?
French Protestants persecuted in France, who arrived at the Cape from 1688 and were granted land in the valley.
What does the Huguenot Monument mean?
The three arches represent the Trinity, and the woman with the Bible and the broken chain symbolizes religious freedom.
Is the museum next to the monument?
Yes, the Huguenot Memorial Museum is beside it, at the end of the main street.