5 Historical Sites not to miss on your next visit to Cowra
Written by Stassi Austin.
5 Historical sites not to miss on your next visit to Cowra.
Steeped in history and heritage, Cowra is home to some unique historical locations. Home to the largest land-fought military battle on Australian soil during World War Two, explore these five key attractions dedicated to the ongoing legacy of peace and reconciliation in our region.
COWRA POW HOLOGRAM THEATRE
Start at the Cowra Visitor Information Centre and watch the powerful hologram presentation about the Cowra Prisoner of War Breakout in 1944. This 9-minute presentation brings the tragic events of The Cowra Breakout to life through the eyes of Claire, a young Cowra local.
Book here: Free 9 Minute Hologram Viewing
COWRA JAPANESE GARDEN AND CULTURAL CENTRE
Explore the stunning Cowra Japanese Garden and Cultural Centre and enjoy a coffee or lunch at the Cafe. Opened in 1979, the Garden is a ‘must-see’ at any time of the year, whether you are on your first visit to Cowra or your fiftieth. A tangible monument to peace and reconciliation between two countries, take the time to explore the stunning 12.5 acres of garden and enjoy its beauty and tranquillity.
Book here: Daily Admission Entry
COWRA PRISONER OF WAR (POW) CAMPSITE
Cowra is steeped in rich history and heritage, with much of the town’s legacy starting at the Cowra Prisoner of War (POW) Camp site. Visit the Prisoner of War Campsite and take the time to reflect upon the horrific tragedy that occurred, and the beautiful story of reconciliation that followed.
The ruins of the Prisoner of War Campsite are still visible to this day, with well-placed interpretive signage to help you visualise what once stood in this picturesque part of Cowra. Stand under the replica Guard Tower, where a detailed audio presentation will bring the scenery around you to life.
The POW Campsite is accessible at all times.
COWRA WAR CEMETERIES
The final resting place for those lost in the Cowra Breakout tragedy and other service personnel in World War II, we encourage you to pay your respects at the Australian, Indonesian and Japanese War Cemeteries. The Cemeteries are beautifully maintained and considered a showpiece for modern military cemeteries around the world.
The War Cemeteries are accessible at all times.
AUSTRALIA CHAPTER OF THE WORLD PEACE BELL
Ring the Australian Chapter of the World Peace Bell and listen to the audio presentation. Made from melted-down coins donated by 106 member countries of the United Nations, Australia’s World Peace Bell is a testament to Cowra’s long-standing contribution to world peace and international understanding. The Peace Bell is proudly housed in Cowra’s Civic Square, where visitors can read the interpretive signage, listen to the audio presentation and even ring the bell itself.
The Peace Bell is accessible at all times.
Getting here and around
Cowra is easy to reach, conveniently located at the intersection of three major highways:
- From Sydney: Take the Great Western Highway via Lithgow and Bathurst.
- From Canberra: Travel via the Barton Highway, Yass and the Lachlan Valley Way.
With nearby towns such as Bathurst, Orange, Grenfell and Young just an hour to one-and-a-half hours away, Cowra makes a great base from which to explore the surrounding region.
Plan your visit
For an easy guide to planning your trip, visit the Cowra website (visitcowra.com.au) and check out the Itinerary Planner (there are four day trips that cover Cowra, Canowindra, Woodstock, Wyangala Dam and further into the countryside), or view/download the Visitor Guide.
The Cowra Visitor Information Centre is an essential first stop for visitors to the Cowra region and is open 9am to 5pm, seven days a week, every day of the year (except Christmas Day).
Visit Cowra and discover what it means to escape.
