The concept for the monument as C.J.
Langenhoven described it was based on
planting a pole each year, symbolising the
statistical use of written Afrikaans. Over ten years
the statistical curve has shown such rapidly rising
growth that if one had to image where the curve
would end up, it would reach to highest skies.
The curve not only symbolize the use of
Afrikaans, but also the hopes and aspirations for
the language, the link that Afrikaans can provide
between Europe and Republic of South Africa,
and the aim of nation to reach unreachable
standards of quality in everything we do.
The Franschoek district also boasts the symbolical
Babel Mountain, named after the tower of Babel
in Biblical literature. This mountain's name comes
from the various languages that settled in the
area at the time, and the need for a common
language to communicate with one another,
enhancing the special nature of the location of
the monument overlooking the area and the
various towns established by different language
groups.
The structure itself apart from the idea behind it
is in itself a magnificent example of the level of
excellence in South African Engineering and
Architecture at the time. Architect Jan van Wijk
designed the structure, and the materials are
meant to represent the Paarl Rock, a Granite-like
outcrop from which the aggregate was also
sourced. The Taalmonument is truly worth our
LA curator's series recommendation and a part
of our heritage worth preserving, in life and
literature.
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