Light Square, Adelaide Travel Guide

Light Square/Wauwi, located in the bustling heart of Adelaide, is a place where history and culture converge. Designed by Colonel William Light as one of the city's original six squares, it was named after him in 1837. In 2003, the square was assigned the dual name Wauwi, from the Kaurna language of the original inhabitants, recognizing Wauwi as the wife of Kadlitpina, a respected Kaurna elder.Unlike Adelaide's other squares, Light Square is the final resting place of Colonel William Light, who died in 1839. A monument marks his grave, which has been renovated over the years, most recently in 1905. The square has evolved over time, with the addition of a palisade fence in 1880 and later the extension of Currie Street through the square in 1910 to accommodate trams.Light Square has served as a gathering place for various communities. In the early 1900s, it was a popular spot for Aboriginal families. Today, it hosts events like Illuminate Adelaide, showcasing the square's adaptability and continued relevance in Adelaide's cultural landscape. The square also features public art installations, including 'The Eternal Question' sculpture.Today, Light Square provides a refreshing escape from the urban environment. With green landscapes, trees and manicured lawns, it is a favorite spot for locals and tourists alike. Visitors can explore memorials and plaques that pay tribute to important events and figures in Adelaide's history.