The War Memorial Plaza is located just north of Monument Circle in downtown Indianapolis. There are 14 memorials to visit and honor those who lost their lives defending the United States. The War Memorial Plaza was designated a National Historic Landmark District in 1994.
The Crown Jewel
The Plaza contains two museums, three parks and 25 acres of monuments, statues, sculptures and fountains.
You will see the Indiana War Memorial in the plaza's heart. This museum recognizes the contributions of Hoosier servicemen and women from the Revolutionary War to current conflicts. You can admire the Congressional Gold Medal awarded to the final Crew of the USS Indianapolis, the battle flag collection, and experience the hidden gem of the museum, The Shrine Room.
The Shrine Room
Hidden at the top of a narrow staircase, the shrine room is often overlooked by visitors. This room is full of symbolism meant to evoke emotion in visitors. It was dedicated on Armistice Day in 1933 with the hope of inspiring citizenship in all who pass through. Meaningful details cover the room, with red, white, and blue being an important recurring theme.
In the center of the room stands the Altar of Consecration, a marble altar surrounded by torches. Directly above the altar is the Star of Destiny, a symbol of hope in the United States After World War I. It is surrounded by twinkling lights against a blue sky. The blue stained glass windows represent the freedom we have as Americans and fill the room with beautiful blue light on a sunny day.
Below The Star of Destiny is a Garrison Flag, the largest flag used by the U.S. Army. Surrounding all these beautiful pieces are sixteen 40-foot columns made of marble from Vermont. They are red to represent the blood shed during World War I. The four walls of the room are adorned with a white frieze sculpted by Mr. Frank Jirouch, depicting the story of World War 1. They are illuminated in white light to represent purity.
Plan Your Visit
A walk through The Shrine Room is an emotional experience commemorating the ‘war to end all wars’. It can be visited Wednesday through Sunday from 9 to 5. Admission is free. The rest of the memorials in the 25 acre plaza can be enjoyed anytime. Because of this incredible district Indiana is only second to Washington D.C. in the number of monuments dedicated to veterans. There is also no city with a larger area dedicated to honoring veterans, one of many reasons to be proud to be a Hoosier.
