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Hall of Memory

Introduction
Artist
Windows
Dome
Mosaics
Pillars
Tomb

The Hall of Memory, set above the Pool of Reflection, is the heart of the Australian War Memorial. It can only be reached by walking past the names of the more than 102,000 who have given their lives in the service of this country. Here you stand by the Tomb of the Unknown Australian Soldier, at the still point of all remembrance.

    Hall of Memory

    The Hall of Memory documentary film

    The Memorial has released a powerful documentary paying homage to the Hall of Memory. In particular, it emphasises the 15 values observed in Australian servicemen and servicewomen which inform character.

    We invite you to watch the The Hall of Memory film below.

    Produced by renowned journalist, producer and film-maker Max Uechtritz and scored by songwriter and record producer Garth Porter, The Hall of Memory film explores the concept and intent behind the 15 stained glass panels in the Hall of Memory, each of which symbolises one of the quintessential qualities displayed by Australians in war. The film features Memorial Director Dr Brendan Nelson presenting the story of the creation of the Hall of Memory and its stunning designs by artist Napier Waller OBE CMG. 

    Copies of The Hall of Memory film are available for purchase on DVD from the Memorial's online shop.

    Hall of Memory - values and character
    DVD Available Now

    Constructing the Hall of Memory

    The Memorial was conceived in the years after the First World War, though difficulties with budget and design delayed construction until 1936.

    The Great War was to be commemorated in the stained-glass windows of the Hall of Memory, but by the time of the Memorial’s official opening in 1941, the Second World War had begun. In 1945 it was decided that the Hall’s mosaic should be dedicated to the memory of the fallen in the recent war. The Hall of Memory was finally dedicated in 1959.

    See the construction of the Hall of Memory
    Video

    About Napier Waller

    Australian artist Napier Waller was chosen to create the decorative elements in the Hall on Memory, including the stained-glass windows and mosaics. Despite having lost his right arm during the First World War, Waller was actively involved in the entire process.

    Learn more about the artist
    Napier Waller

    See the Hall of Memory with Street View:

    Last updated: 23 October 2019

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    Explore the Collection

    Explore the Collection

    Our collection contains a wealth of material to help you research and find your connection with the wartime experiences of the brave men and women who served in Australia’s military forces.

    Find out more
    The Australian War Memorial at Night

    Visit

    The Australian War Memorial was voted the number one landmark in Australia by travellers in the 2016 Trip Advisor awards. Come and see why.

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    The Donations and bequests

    Donations & Bequests

    Your generous donation will be used to ensure the memory of our Defence Forces and what they have done for us, and what they continue to do for our freedom remains – today and into the future.

    Find out more
    The placesofpride

    Places of Pride

    Places of Pride, the National Register of War Memorials, is a new initiative designed to record the locations and photographs of every publicly accessible memorial across Australia.

    Find out more
    Canberra Highlands in Grayscale

    ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF
    TRADITIONAL CUSTODIANS

    The Australian War Memorial acknowledges the traditional custodians of country throughout Australia. We recognise their continuing connection to land, sea and waters. We pay our respects to elders past and present.
    Location map of The Australian War Memorial
    The Australian War Memorial building

    The Australian War Memorial

    Treloar Crescent
    Campbell ACT 2612
    Australia
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    Treloar Crescent

    Campbell ACT 2612

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