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Heroes’ Acre 🇳🇦

Attraction · Namibia

CountryNamibia Best timeMorning TypeAttraction
© Olga Ernst & Hp.Baumeler / CC BY-SA 4.0

Located 10 kilometres (6 mi) south of Windhoek's city centre along the B1 national road to Rehoboth, Heroes' Acre is an official war memorial of the Republic of Namibia. Opened on August 26, 2002, this site was built into the uninhabited hills to foster patriotism and honor those who fought for the nation.

As you explore the symmetric polygon monument, designed and built by North Korean firm Mansudae Overseas Projects, you will see a striking marble obelisk and a bronze statue of the Unknown Soldier at its centre, whose features resemble Namibia's founding president, Sam Nujoma. The memorial grounds feature parade grounds, a grandstand built for 5,000 people, and a burial site with 174 tombs.

During your visit, you can view cenotaphs honoring nine inaugural national heroes—such as Chief Kahimemua Nguvauva, Samuel Maharero, Hendrik Witbooi, and Hosea Kutako—alongside mausoleums and graves for notable Namibians, including former President Hage Geingob. It offers a solemn, historic experience for visitors looking to understand Namibia's anti-colonial struggle and national heritage.

What to see at Heroes' Acre

  • Marble obelisk and bronze statue of the Unknown Soldier
  • Parade grounds and a 5,000-seat grandstand
  • Cenotaphs honoring historic Namibian heroes and heroines
  • Presidential mausoleums and 174 tomb burial sites

Visiting tips

Keep an eye out for the central bronze statue, which was modeled after the physical features of Namibia's founding president, Sam Nujoma.

How long: 1-2 hours · Best time: Morning

How to get there & what’s nearby

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

Plan your trip

See the full Windhoek travel guide for where to stay, the best time to visit and the top things to do.