Behold, the Tower of Light. It is a beacon of history right here in Johannesburg. Its unique design and rich cultural significance draw visitors from all over.
The Tower of Light is more than just a feast for the eyes. It is a testament to Johannesburg’s storied past. Built during a period of transformation, the Tower is emblematic of the city’s evolution. It also represents the diverse narratives that shape its identity today.
As you approach this magnificent structure, you will be struck by its architectural elegance. The stories are etched into its very fabric. The surrounding area is perfect for a leisurely stroll. This provides ample opportunities for photographs and exploration.
Visitors can immerse themselves in the rich history associated with the Tower of Light. Consider its role in various cultural events. Think about its significance to the local community. Guided tours are available. Tourists gain deeper insights into the landmark’s historical context and architectural features on these tours. Moreover, the Tower of Light serves as a hub for local events. This makes it a vibrant part of Johannesburg’s cultural scene.
But what is the Tower of Light really? It was commissioned by the Victoria Falls and Transvaal Power Company. This was a precursor to Eskom. The tower was built of reinforced concrete using Pretoria Portland Cement. This was for the Empire Exhibition in 1936.
It was the focal point of the Showgrounds. It stood at the top of the main axis. This later became Victory Road. It remained the icon of the Rand Show until the Showgrounds were moved. The land was then given to the University of the Witwatersrand.
Professor G.E. Pearse designed the Tower of Light. Bernard Cooke worked on the drawings. It is a simple soaring circular tower with fins. Chipkin calls it a major futuristic monument. The tower is a fine example of a Deco Moderne building. It was conceived and designed in what was then a bold new international architectural style. It was designed as the focal point of the Empire Exhibition. It was to be the beacon visible from all points within the grounds. It would even be visible from the surrounding suburbs. It was sited at the highest point of the central axis through the Exhibition. It provided an anchor for the site layout.
The tower consists of a hollow circular reinforced concrete shaft of large diameter. It has four substantial concrete fins attached. There is one on each of the four diagonals. The fins rise from the ground plane with a nominal taper. They terminate at a short distance above the full height of the shaft. The overall effect is one of soaring verticality and power.
A raised circular cantilevered viewing platform was originally provided at the base of the tower. The curved outer edge of this platform was slightly recessed behind the faces of the four fins. It was protected with a wrought iron deco-style balustrade. Circulation around the viewing platform was made possible with doorways. These were let through each of the fins at their junction with the curved face of the tower. Access to the viewing platform was via an attached curved open stair on the west side of the tower. It was set between two of the fins.
Access to the top of the Tower of Light was provided via a narrow wrought iron cat-ladder. It was fixed to the internal face of the column shaft. This was in line with the northeast fin. The ladder terminated at a trap door in the upper platform. Access to this level was required in order to service the flagpole and the light fittings.
The tower shaft was capped with a circular cantilevered upper platform. It intersected with and was supported by the four fins. The four fins rose about 1 200 mm above the level of the platform.
The Tower of Light was rated one of Johannesburg’s top 100 sites in the lead up to Johannesburg’s Centenary Celebrations in 1986. It stands as a reminder of Johannesburg’s journey through time. It is an ongoing narrative in the heart of South Africa.