In 1997, the original Bhisho Massacre Memorial was unveiled by Archbishop Desmond Tutu, alongside the Independence Stadium in Bhisho. Although none of the 28 victims of the massacre were buried at the site, a black granite slab was erected on which the names of each of the victims were engraved as a dedication to those who lost their lives on that horrific day. It is a location where the victims can be remembered, a place where families and loved ones, friends, and enthusiasts can go to pay their respects to those who lost their lives.
Since its construction, the memorial has become a cherished and sacred place for the family and friends of those involved. While the memorial itself remains well-maintained, it lacks integration with its immediate surroundings and any proposed future developments in the area.
The site of the Bhisho Massacre Memorial forms an integral part of the proposed first node of the greater masterplan for Bhisho, positioned at the intersection of the R63 and the extension of Ceremonial Boulevard, holding the potential for being an entrance gateway to Bhisho. An upgrade to the existing Bhisho Massacre Memorial itself, as well as the gardens surrounding it, was an effort to create better integration with the above mentioned.
The simple concrete block and black granite memorial was expanded from 1900mm to 3420mm and clad in sandstone, allowing the black granite to contrast beautifully with the pale hue of the cladding. A flagpole was added, and a concentric design was developed to formalize the site, resulting in a series of gardens and pathways. One pathway, known as the “sacred path,” features individual plaques for each victim mounted along an angled, curved concrete wall in front of a berm, which displays messages from their families. This design ensures that each victim is remembered and honoured.
The design forms part of a greater development, where the neighboring new building has the same concentric ideals and aspects, creating an overall impression that the sites are connected.
noh ARCHITECTS 