DNA Tower, Perth
The DNA Tower in Perth's King's Park symbolizes the fusion of science and architecture, reflecting Australia's diverse migrant history. Built in 1966 by the Gradisen family, Dutch migrants who arrived in Australia in 1951, the tower was a project realized under the guidance of John Beard, the park's director at the time. Beard, who played a pivotal role in establishing the park's botanic gardens, was instrumental in the creation of the tower.
The tower's design, a white double helix staircase that reaches a height of 15 meters (49 feet) and comprises 101 steps, was chosen for its practical benefits in facilitating the ascent and descent of visitors. This pragmatic approach to design resulted in a structure that not only serves a functional purpose but also symbolizes the fundamental building block of life, the DNA molecule. The inspiration for its unique double-helix form was drawn from the double staircase found in the Château de Blois in France, further underlining the tower's international architectural influences.
Positioned on the highest point of King's Park, the DNA Tower is not just a vantage point offering panoramic views of its surroundings, but it also serves as a symbol of community and connectivity. This is emphasized by the paving beneath the tower, which incorporates stones sent from 11 towns and 80 shires across Western Australia, showcasing the unity and diverse heritage of the region.
The tower's design, a white double helix staircase that reaches a height of 15 meters (49 feet) and comprises 101 steps, was chosen for its practical benefits in facilitating the ascent and descent of visitors. This pragmatic approach to design resulted in a structure that not only serves a functional purpose but also symbolizes the fundamental building block of life, the DNA molecule. The inspiration for its unique double-helix form was drawn from the double staircase found in the Château de Blois in France, further underlining the tower's international architectural influences.
Positioned on the highest point of King's Park, the DNA Tower is not just a vantage point offering panoramic views of its surroundings, but it also serves as a symbol of community and connectivity. This is emphasized by the paving beneath the tower, which incorporates stones sent from 11 towns and 80 shires across Western Australia, showcasing the unity and diverse heritage of the region.
Want to visit this sight? Check out these Self-Guided Walking Tours in Perth. Alternatively, you can download the mobile app "GPSmyCity: Walks in 1K+ Cities" from Apple App Store or Google Play Store. The app turns your mobile device to a personal tour guide and it works offline, so no data plan is needed when traveling abroad.
DNA Tower on Map
Sight Name: DNA Tower
Sight Location: Perth, Australia (See walking tours in Perth)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Sight Location: Perth, Australia (See walking tours in Perth)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Walking Tours in Perth, Australia
Create Your Own Walk in Perth
Creating your own self-guided walk in Perth is easy and fun. Choose the city attractions that you want to see and a walk route map will be created just for you. You can even set your hotel as the start point of the walk.
Perth Historic Buildings Walk
Established by British settlers in 1829 and originally named the Swan River Colony, the city of Perth boasts a wealth of old buildings – governmental, religious, residential, commercial and institutional, – many of which are heritage-listed.
Just like other Western Australia’s settlements, the city struggled throughout the 1800s from the lack of resources, labor and investment. However,... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.3 Km or 2.1 Miles
Just like other Western Australia’s settlements, the city struggled throughout the 1800s from the lack of resources, labor and investment. However,... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.3 Km or 2.1 Miles
Perth Introduction Walking Tour
Perth is the capital of Western Australia. With a population of more than 2 million, the metropolitan area is the fourth largest in the country.
Perth was founded by Captain James Stirling in 1829. It was the first free-settler colony in Australia established by private capital. The official foundation ceremony took place on 12 August 1829 with the chopping down of a tree. Today a plaque set... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 4.2 Km or 2.6 Miles
Perth was founded by Captain James Stirling in 1829. It was the first free-settler colony in Australia established by private capital. The official foundation ceremony took place on 12 August 1829 with the chopping down of a tree. Today a plaque set... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 4.2 Km or 2.6 Miles