Shrine of Remembrance - Melbourne, Australia

I took this photo on May 6, 1989 at the Shrine of Remembrance in Melbourne, Australia. The temple-like structure and surrounding gardens serve as a memorial to the Australian servicemen and women from the State of Victoria who served in the World Wars and Vietnam (yes, Australian troops also served in Vietnam). One of the most impressive features of the memorial is the Stone of Remembrance and the Ray of Light. The Stone of Remembrance is the focal point of the Sanctuary. It is set into the floor so that all who look lower their heads in an act of homage. At 11 o'clock on the 11th day of November (the time World War I ended) a ray of light shines through an aperture in the roof and passes over the Stone. It takes four minutes to cross the stone and at exactly 11 o'clock the ray rests on the word "Love."

 

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