This deeply affecting memorial is a reminder of how World War Two touched the lives of many, including those in this area.
The Desert Holocaust Memorial in Civic Center Park, Palm Desert is one of the area's most striking landmarks. Though it's not huge, you may find yourself spending some time here.
The idea of the Desert Holocaust Memorial is to be an immersive commemoration. At the entrance, read the bronze plaque detailing civil rights lost by those who were persecuted. Walk along the cobbled path flanked by lampposts. Both the lights and the cobblestones are faithful replicas of those at the Auschwitz concentration camp. Between the lights, seven bas reliefs are affixed. Created by the sculptor Dee Clements, these depict various scenes surrounding the Holocaust, including the Warsaw Ghetto Uprising, mass executions, transportation, gas chambers, sleeping quarters, and eventual liberation by the Allied forces.
The centre of the memorial is marked by seven large bronze figures on a black granite Star of David. Each figure represents a demographic of those targeted for the concentration camps. Among the representation are a praying rabbi, begging children and a dying man. Look closely at the Star of David and you'll make out a map pinpointing the location of Nazi concentration camps across Europe.
The Desert Holocaust Memorial is a moving and educational experience for children old enough to appreciate it. Ensure that younger children are supervised.
The Desert Holocaust Memorial is situated in Civic Center Park, Palm Desert. It's approximately 24 kilometres from the centre of Palm Springs. Civic Center Park itself provides waterways, grassy eating areas and play equipment – consider turning your trip into an afternoon out. The park is open every day and there is no entrance fee.
