Afrikaans Language Monument
Afrikaanse Taalmonument
A white concrete spire monument on a hillside in Paarl, symbolising the multicultural origins of Afrikaans, with views over the whole Paarl valley.
The Afrikaans Language Monument was unveiled in 1975, marking 50 years since Afrikaans became an official language. Designed by architect Jan van Wyk, its curved concrete columns and spires represent the influence of European languages, African languages and Malay on Afrikaans. The tallest spire is 57 metres high. The monument stands on the south slope of Paarl Mountain, and its terrace offers views of the Paarl valley, the vineyards and, in the distance, Table Mountain. Admission is about ZAR 60. It is open roughly 08:00–19:00 in summer and 08:00–17:00 in winter. Nearby are picnic lawns and trails, and you can continue on to Paarl Mountain Nature Reserve.
Opening hours
Approx. 08:00–17:00 (extended to 19:00 in summer)
Nearby sights
- Paarl Mountain Nature Reserve
- Fairview Wine and Cheese
- Paarl
- Babylonstoren
- Drakenstein Correctional Centre
- Boschendal
- Delaire Graff Estate
- La Motte Wine Estate