Lion Monument
Luzern
The Lion Monument, also known as Löwendenkmal, is a famous rock relief carved into a sandstone cliff in Lucerne, Switzerland. Designed by Danish sculptor Bertel Thorvaldsen and executed by stonemason Lukas Ahorn between 1820 and 1821, it commemorates the Swiss Guards who were killed during the storming of the Tuileries Palace in Paris in 1792 amid the French Revolution. The monument depicts a mortally wounded lion impaled by a spear, lying with its head resting on a shield bearing the fleur-de-lis of the French monarchy, symbolizing the loyalty and sacrifice of the Swiss Guards. Beside it lies another shield with the coat of arms of Switzerland. Measuring approximately ten meters long and six meters high, the monument is set in a small park near a pond, creating a solemn and reflective atmosphere. It is one of Switzerland's most visited monuments, attracting around 1.4 million visitors annually. The monument is inscribed with the Latin motto "Helvetiorum Fidei ac Virtuti" (To the loyalty and bravery of the Swiss) and lists the names of the fallen officers and the approximate numbers of soldiers who died or survived. The Lion Monument is a powerful symbol of Swiss courage and fidelity, praised by figures such as Mark Twain as "the most mournful and moving piece of stone in the world."
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Tip: The best time to visit the Lion Monument is during the daytime when the natural light highlights the intricate details of the sculpture and the surrounding park offers a peaceful setting. Visitors are encouraged to explore the nearby pond and memorial chapel for a fuller experience. Tickets are not required as the monument is freely accessible. However, checking the official website or local tourist information for any special events or guided tours can enhance the visit. The site is well maintained, and donations or contributions to preservation efforts are welcomed. Avoid peak tourist hours to enjoy a quieter and more contemplative visit.
Interesting facts
- •The Lion Monument is visited by about 1.4 million tourists annually, making it one of Switzerland's most popular tourist attractions.
- •Mark Twain described the monument as "the most mournful and moving piece of stone in the world."
- •The lion sculpture is carved directly into a sandstone cliff and measures roughly 10 meters in length and 6 meters in height.
- •The monument features two shields: one with the fleur-de-lis symbolizing the French monarchy, and another with the Swiss coat of arms.
- •The Latin inscription "Helvetiorum Fidei ac Virtuti" translates to "To the loyalty and bravery of the Swiss."
History
The Lion Monument was commissioned in 1818 by Karl Pfyffer von Altishofen, a Swiss Guards officer who survived the 1792 Tuileries Palace attack and wished to honor his fallen comrades.
Funded mainly by European royal houses and conservative circles, the monument was designed by Bertel Thorvaldsen and carved by Lukas Ahorn in a former sandstone quarry near Lucerne.
It was unveiled in 1821 on the anniversary of the attack.
The monument commemorates approximately 760 Swiss Guards killed defending the French monarchy during the Revolution, a number that recent research suggests may be somewhat overstated.
Despite initial political controversy over its royalist symbolism, the Lion Monument has become a cherished national symbol and was placed under Swiss monument protection in 2006.
Place Guide
The Lion Sculpture1821
A large, deeply expressive relief of a dying lion impaled by a spear, symbolizing the sacrifice and loyalty of the Swiss Guards. The lion rests its head on the French royal fleur-de-lis shield, with the Swiss coat of arms nearby.
Memorial Pond and Park
The monument is set beside a tranquil pond within a small park area, enhancing the contemplative atmosphere. The pond also serves as a wishing well and is cleaned biannually.
Memorial Chapel
Located adjacent to the monument's park entrance, the chapel was designed by Louis Pfyffer von Wyher as a place for reflection and remembrance linked to the Lion Monument.
Contact
Phone: 041 227 17 17
