Gazing at the Centennial Monument, can you feel the weight of history? It’s more than just a structure. It’s a time capsule, marking a pivotal moment in Australia’s story. On January 1st, 1901, right here, the Commonwealth of Australia was born. Imagine the scene. Over 60,000 people gathered, dressed in their finest attire. They witnessed the birth of a nation. The original monument was a grand, temporary pavilion, 14 meters high. It was an octagonal, domed structure made of plaster of Paris, adorned with native flora and the imperial coat of arms. This design element even made its way onto the Australian $5 note. Inside, the Federation Stone stood tall, symbolizing the unity of states and territories. At 1:00 pm, the Queen’s Proclamation was read, the Governor-General and Federal Ministers were sworn in, and a 21-gun salute echoed across Centennial Park. This marked the official unification of Australia’s six separate colonies. Sadly, the original plaster pavilion deteriorated quickly, and was removed in 1903. The Federation Stone, however, remained. It was placed on a sandstone pedestal, enclosed by an iron fence. This served as a reminder of the momentous event until the new Centennial Monument, also known as the Federation Pavilion was constructed in 1988 for Australia’s bicentennial celebrations. This circular pavilion, designed by Alexander Tzannes, symbolizes unity and strength. It houses the original Federation Stone, now capped with a marble hexagon engraved with each state and its founding date. Look up at the dome. The artwork you see is a mosaic of 1,440 vitreous enamelled steel panels, a blend of European and Aboriginal elements. The inscription below the dome, “Mammon or Millennial Eden,” poses a powerful question from a 1901 poem. Would Australia become a land of corrupt wealth or a lasting paradise? The Centennial Monument is a testament to Australia’s journey. It is a place of reflection, inviting us to consider the past and the future of this nation.
Центральный дом работников искусств
Step through the grand wooden doors of the Central House of the Workers of Art, and you’ll be transported to