South Africa, known as the ‘Rainbow Nation’ is truly a land of amazing natural and cultural diversity. The country’s long, chequered history has left imprints in various monuments which are to be found in the country’s executive capital Pretoria.

One of the most notable landmarks in the city of Pretoria is the Voortrekker Monument. Situated on a hilltop, the monument is a towering granite structure and thus can be seen from any part of the city. The Voortrekker Monument was built in the memory of those Pioneers who migrated from the Cape Colony between 1835 and 1854.

The main highlights in the interior of the Voortrekker Monument are the Historical Frieze and the Cenotaph. The Historical Frieze is made of marble and is reputed to be the biggest Frieze of its kind in the world. It includes 27 bas-relief panels which depict the history of the Great Trek besides scenes from the daily life, cultural and religious beliefs of the Voortrekkers. However it the Cenotaph which is the heart of the Monument. On the Cenotaph is inscribed the Africaans phrase for “We for thee, South Africa” on which a ray of light falls every December 16 at twelve in the day.

A visit to Pretoria is incomplete without a trip to the Voortrekker Monument. Visitors to this city can check out www.ooaha.com for best Pretoria hotel deals