Afrikaans Monument Paarl: Exploring the Exquisite Architecture and History of Afrikaans

By far one of the most popular spots in Paarl, the Taal or Afrikaans Monument Paarl stands tall as a signature of the Afrikaans heritage. An architectural masterpiece, it is designed so immaculately that every specification or metric has a meaning behind it.

One of the designers of the monument famously remarked, “Wonderful – there you see your language – a nice shape. But it can’t be just a shape, it must also have definition.” Watch here.

Afrikaans Monument Paarl

So lets tell you more about its architecture. The three columns represent the European languages, and their diminishing height represents the diminishing influence of the European languages on Afrikaans.

The three convex mounds signify the influence of local African languages. There is a wall leading up to the stairs that represents the influence of Indonesian languages and dialects (especially Malay) on Afrikaans.

The main column, which is also the tallest, represents the rising growth of Afrikaans as a language, while the arch between the main column and the three columns aims to depict how Western Europe met Africa.

Finally, a second shorter column represents South Africa – it is hollow and signifies that there is a continuous engagement between Afrikaans, South Africa and Africa.

Above all, the designs showcase that Afrikaans is a language that has been influenced by many cultures over the years, representing a unique blend that brings together so many people. And that to us is the beautiful power of language.

You can learn all about this through the visitors guide, the information desk, online pamphlets, but also, free guides offered by the monument. Audio guides are also available in many languages, making this a very accessible tour to different people who engage with information differently.

The monument, of course, is the centrepiece of visiting, but there are so many other amenities that make this place a must-visit for historical buffs like us, but also others from around the area.

The lush grass makes it a calming picnic area where you can spend the entire day – we have! There are hikes that also start from nearby – you will just need to hold a small cash deposit (returnable) at the info desk to get the key to access the hikes.

Entrance costs R40 (R10 for Drakenstein residents with valid library cards) for Adults. Students and children get a discounted R10 rate. It’s also free to visit on your birthday! If you’re interested in the talk by Lester, check out Cape Talk‘s website.

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