Pink Triangle Memorial: A Reminder of History

A poignant memorial in San Francisco's Castro District honoring LGBTQ+ victims of the Holocaust, reclaimed as a symbol of pride and a reminder of the ongoing fight for equality.

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Pink Triangle Memorial

The Pink Triangle Memorial in San Francisco's Castro District is a poignant and thought-provoking tribute to the LGBTQ+ individuals persecuted during the Nazi regime. This small, triangle-shaped park features fifteen granite pylons, each adorned with a pink triangle, the symbol Nazis forced gay men to wear as a badge of shame. Today, the reclaimed symbol stands as a powerful reminder of the past and a beacon of hope and resilience for the LGBTQ+ community. Visitors can reflect on the history, take a crystal as a remembrance, and explore the vibrant Castro neighborhood, a historic center for LGBTQ+ rights and culture. The memorial offers a space for quiet contemplation and a powerful connection to the ongoing fight for equality and acceptance. It is a must-see for anyone interested in history, human rights, and the LGBTQ+ experience.

A brief summary to Pink Triangle Memorial

2454 Market St, San Francisco, The Castro, California, 94114, US
+1415-864-9470
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Local tips

Take a moment to reflect on the history and significance of the pink triangle symbol, originally used to persecute homosexuals but now a symbol of LGBTQ+ pride.
Consider taking a rose quartz crystal from the central triangle as a personal memento and a reminder to spread hope and peace.
Combine your visit with a stroll through the Castro District to experience its vibrant LGBTQ+ culture and explore other historical landmarks.
Visit during daylight hours for clear views of the memorial's details and a more peaceful atmosphere.
Check for local events or commemorations that may be taking place at the memorial during your visit to enhance your experience.

Getting There

Public Transport

The Pink Triangle Memorial is directly above the Castro Street Station, served by Muni Metro lines K, L, and M. From downtown San Francisco, take any of these lines towards the Castro. Exit at Castro Street Station. The memorial is located at the intersection of Market and Castro streets, across from Harvey Milk Plaza. A single Muni fare is $3.00, or $2.75 if using a Clipper card or the MuniMobile app. A day pass costs $5.00, offering unlimited rides on Muni buses, streetcars, and light rail (excluding cable cars).
Walking

From Harvey Milk Plaza, cross Market Street and walk approximately half a block west. The Pink Triangle Memorial will be on your left, at the intersection of Market and 17th streets. The walk is short and straightforward, with clear pedestrian crossings.
Taxi/Ride-Share

Request a taxi or ride-share to 2454 Market Street, San Francisco. This will drop you off directly in front of the Pink Triangle Memorial. A short taxi ride from downtown San Francisco will typically cost between $15 and $25, depending on traffic.
Driving

Driving to the Pink Triangle Memorial can be challenging due to limited parking in the Castro. Street parking is often tight and difficult to find. Several parking garages are available in the area, but they can be expensive. Consider parking a few blocks away and walking to the memorial. Parking rates in nearby garages typically range from $30 to $45 per day. Some nearby options include the lot off Castro Street near 18th Street, with an entrance between 451 and 463 Castro St. Be aware of street cleaning schedules and parking restrictions.

Discover more about Pink Triangle Memorial

Located in the heart of San Francisco's Castro District, the Pink Triangle Memorial stands as a solemn and evocative tribute to the thousands of homosexual, bisexual, and transgender individuals persecuted and murdered by the Nazi regime during World War II. This small, yet profoundly impactful, memorial park serves as a physical reminder of the atrocities committed and a testament to the resilience and strength of the LGBTQ+ community. The memorial's design is simple yet powerful. Fifteen triangular granite pylons, each five feet tall and inlaid with a pink triangle at the top, form a larger triangle within the park. These pylons represent the estimated 15,000 LGBTQ+ victims who perished in Nazi concentration camps. The use of the pink triangle is particularly significant, as it was the symbol Nazis forced gay men to wear as a badge of shame and identification. By reclaiming this symbol, the memorial transforms it into a symbol of pride, remembrance, and solidarity. At the center of the park, a smaller triangle is filled with loose rose quartz crystals. Visitors are invited to take a crystal as a personal memento and a reminder of the lives lost, encouraging them to spread a message of hope and peace throughout the world. The park's landscaping features drought-resistant plants and flowers, creating a serene and contemplative atmosphere. The Pink Triangle Memorial is more than just a collection of stones and symbols; it is a living monument that fosters reflection, education, and dialogue. Plaques throughout the park provide historical context, detailing the persecution of LGBTQ+ individuals during the Holocaust and the ongoing struggle for LGBTQ+ rights. Benches offer a space for quiet contemplation, allowing visitors to absorb the gravity of the site and connect with the stories of those who suffered. The memorial's location in the Castro District, one of the world's most historically significant LGBTQ+ neighborhoods, adds another layer of meaning. The Castro has long been a haven for LGBTQ+ individuals, a place where they can find community, support, and acceptance. By situating the memorial in this vibrant and historically charged neighborhood, it reinforces the connection between past struggles and present-day activism. The Pink Triangle Memorial was dedicated on December 10, 2001, coinciding with the United Nations Human Rights Day. It was conceived and built by the Eureka Valley Neighborhood Association, with the support of local businesses, city agencies, and community members. The memorial is maintained by the non-profit Eureka Valley Foundation, relying on donations and volunteer efforts to ensure its upkeep and continued relevance. Visiting the Pink Triangle Memorial is a deeply moving experience. It is a place to remember the victims of the Holocaust, to honor the resilience of the LGBTQ+ community, and to reflect on the importance of fighting against prejudice and discrimination in all its forms. It serves as a reminder that the persecution of any individual or group damages all of humanity and that we must remain vigilant in protecting the rights and dignity of all people. The memorial is open to the public and free to visit year-round. It is easily accessible by public transportation, with the Castro Street Station of Muni Metro located directly beneath the park. The surrounding Castro District offers a wealth of shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions, making it a worthwhile destination for anyone interested in exploring San Francisco's LGBTQ+ history and culture. While visiting, consider exploring other nearby landmarks in the Castro, such as Harvey Milk Plaza, named after the pioneering LGBTQ+ civil rights leader, and the GLBT Historical Society Museum, which showcases the rich history of the LGBTQ+ community in San Francisco and beyond. A visit to the Pink Triangle Memorial is not just a historical experience; it's an opportunity to connect with the ongoing struggle for equality and justice, and to reaffirm our commitment to creating a more inclusive and compassionate world. The Pink Triangle Memorial stands as a testament to the power of remembrance, the resilience of the human spirit, and the enduring importance of fighting for a world where all people are treated with dignity and respect. It is a place where history, art, and community converge to create a profound and lasting impact.

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Pink Triangle Memorial: A Reminder of History

A brief summary to Pink Triangle Memorial

Local tips

Getting There

Public Transport

Walking

Taxi/Ride-Share

Driving

Unlock the Best of Pink Triangle Memorial

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about Pink Triangle Memorial

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Pink Triangle Memorial

Harvey Milk Plaza

Alfred E. Clarke Mansion

Delano House

Miguel Hidalgo Statue

Mission Dolores Basilica

Mission San Francisco de Asis

Dolores Park

John Spencer House

Buena Vista Park

Grateful Dead House

Abner Phelps House

Janis Joplin's House

Liberty-Hill Historic District

Haight-Ashbury Clock

Unmissable attractions to see

440 Castro

Jane Warner Plaza

The Castro Theatre

GLBT Historical Society Museum

The Castro

Beaux

Randall Museum

Castro Camera

Corona Heights Park

Concrete Slides

Essential places to dine

Blind Butcher

Fable

Starbelly

Nopa

Prubechu

Lazy Bear

Burma Love - Mission

Bistro Ember

Bottega

El Techo

Lolinda

Foreign Cinema

Beretta Valencia

Khamsa Restaurant

Petit Crenn

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Local Take

Isso San Francisco

Life

COVE

True

Chocolate Covered

Welcome Haight & Ashbury

Held Over

Serendipity Cards and Gifts

No Shop

Things Lucky Handicraft

Rare Device

San Francisco Mercantile

Pikitos

Land of the Sun

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Tara Indian Cuisine

Blackbird

Noc Noc

ABV

The Beehive

Brioche Bakery & Cafe

The Sycamore