Cape Town Off the Beaten Path Tips by Alain_Smeets

The language monument reminds the people to the official status of the African language. This monument exist out of grained granite that is made into concrete.

The small columns remind that the Dutch, English and several African languages are the source for the African language.

For more information and photos see my page: Paarl

You can find much more explanation about the symbolism and the idea behind this design on their website. (This is an extract from that side)

A COLONNADE of three elements to the left or west of the approach symbolizes the languages and cultures of the enlightened West. These structures, closely juxtaposed, begin at a height and diminish in size and then descend in a curve to ascend again into the main upward sweep.

A PODIUM with three semi spheres to the right, or to the eastern side of the approach, represents magical Africa with its indigenous languages and cultures, and develops into a lesser curve which joins the main upward movement.

The confluence of these two curves forms a bridge which is the base of the main hyperbola. This, rising up into space, signifies the coming into being and the development of Afrikaans.

A language and culture neither western nor African, but Malayan, is represented by a low wall in the middle third of the main steps to add to the general scale.

Together with the main column, placed in the same life-giving pool with bubbling fountain, rises a structure symbolising our Republic: free, yet encompassed by and open to Africa; free in form and reminiscent of the west, whose cultures helped to establish it. It symbolizes two languages and two mutual enriching cultures, yet one nation, facing the future with courage and resolution, deeply conscious of the presence of an Omniscient Being, guiding us to our destiny in the turmoil of our time.

The Afrikaanse Taalmonument is open daily from 9 to 5. The access turns off Main Street at the town entrance and is sign-posted.

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Phone: 021-8723441
Website: http://www.museums.org.za/TaalMon/English.htm

The vineyards around Paarl, Franshoek and many other places are worth a visit. We drove to several of them, tasted the good wines and bought several bottles to finish in the evenings.

They are scattered around the area and you can go for a free taste, just drive up. If you like the wine, buy a bottle or two to drink them with your "braai".

To see the area out there, look at my Franshoek page.

This area is very attractive for hiking or relaxing and you can consider to stay a few days here.

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Website: http://www.southafrica-travel.net/westcape/cawi_02.htm#