On Birdwood Avenue in Melbourne’s Kings Domain, the Shrine of Remembrance is Victoria’s principal war memorial. Built in 1934 to commemorate Victorians who served in the First World War, it now honours Australians who served in wars and peacekeeping operations. Inside, the galleries trace the country’s wartime history through objects, photographs and personal stories. Take time for the Sanctuary and the memorial grounds, then climb or use the lift to reach the balcony for views across Melbourne and the surrounding gardens.
A memorial that grew beyond its original purpose
The Shrine was built to remember Victorians who served in the First World War. Its construction began in 1927, and it was dedicated in 1934. Melbourne architects Philip Hudson and James Wardrop, both returned soldiers, designed the building. Public donations helped fund its construction.
The memorial’s purpose has since expanded. It now honours Australians who served in wars and peacekeeping operations, and commemorates service both overseas and at home. The site remains a focus for public remembrance, including ceremonies on ANZAC Day, 25 April, and Remembrance Day, 11 November.
Later additions have extended the site beyond the original building. The Second World War forecourt and the Visitor Centre and Galleries of Remembrance form part of its development. The grounds include memorials associated with later conflicts, among them a Gallipoli memorial, the Eternal Flame in the forecourt and a Remembrance Garden.
Inside the Shrine
The interior gives visitors space to pause as well as material to explore. The Sanctuary and Stone of Remembrance form part of the memorial’s central experience. The Shrine’s architecture draws on classical Greek forms, with design influences also linked to the Mausoleum of Halicarnassus. Its steps, columns and carved details are part of the visit, not merely a backdrop to the exhibitions.
The Galleries of Remembrance tell stories of Australia’s military history through objects, photographs, uniforms and artworks. The collection includes more than 800 items, with material dating from the 1850s to the present. Exhibitions and educational activities provide further ways to explore the lives and experiences connected to Australia’s conflicts. A guided tour can help explain the building’s design and the meaning of its spaces.
The grounds and the view
The Shrine stands in Kings Domain, near the Royal Botanic Gardens and St Kilda Road. From the surrounding grounds, the elevated building is visible across the parkland. The forecourt’s Eternal Flame and the memorial gardens offer places for quiet reflection before or after a visit inside.
The balcony gives a wide outlook over Melbourne and the nearby gardens. You can reach it by stairs or elevator. The steps also provide a view back towards the city, so it is worth taking in the setting as you approach. Visitors who want to see both the exhibitions and the outdoor areas should leave time for each, rather than treating the Shrine as a quick photo stop.
Perguntas frequentes
Is entry to the Shrine of Remembrance free?
Admission to the Shrine and its grounds is free. Donations are welcome.
What can you see inside the Shrine?
The interior includes the Sanctuary, the Stone of Remembrance and galleries with objects, photographs, uniforms and artworks relating to Australia’s wartime history.
Can you go up to the balcony?
Yes. The balcony is accessible by stairs or elevator and looks out over Melbourne and the surrounding gardens.
When is the Shrine of Remembrance quietest?
Weekdays tend to be quieter, with Monday noted as a particularly uncrowded day.
