Reiterdenkmal, Windhoek 🇳🇦

The Equestrian Monument, historically known as the Reiterdenkmal or Südwester Reiter, was a controversial bronze statue originally erected in Windhoek in 1912. Designed by Adolf Kürle, the 4.5-meter (15-foot) equestrian statue stood atop a 5-meter (16-foot) plinth constructed from roughly 180 granite rocks brought from Okahandja. It was commissioned by German colonial authorities to honor the German soldiers and civilians who died during the Herero and Nama Wars, the Kalahari Expedition, and indigenous uprisings.

Standing as a symbol of colonial rule and power, the monument's historical message sparked intense ongoing public debate due to its one-sided focus on German casualties, ignoring the far greater loss of life suffered by the indigenous Herero and Damara populations. Today, you can no longer see the monument standing in its original position opposite the Christuskirche. After being relocated to the front of the Alte Feste fort in 2010, the statue was completely removed from public view in 2013 following a deproclamation process.

The bronze rider is currently kept in storage inside the courtyard of the Alte Feste, making it a powerful touchstone for understanding Namibia's complex history and shifting public memory.

What to see at Reiterdenkmal, Windhoek

• Historic 4.5-meter bronze equestrian statue created by Berlin sculptor Adolf Kürle
• Originally mounted on a 5-meter plinth made of roughly 180 Okahandja granite rocks
• Inaugurated in 1912 to honor German casualties of colonial-era conflicts
• Subject of decades of political protests, artwork actions, and public debate
• Currently removed from its public plinth and held in storage in the Alte Feste courtyard

Visiting tips

Keep in mind that the statue was taken down in 2013 and is currently held in storage inside the courtyard of the Alte Feste.

How long: 30-60 minutes · Best time: Daytime

How to get there & what’s nearby

Reiterdenkmal, Windhoek is easy to reach on Windhoek’s public transport, and pairs naturally with Christ Church, Windhoek. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Windhoek travel guide.