Lion Monument, Lucerne

Name: Lion Monument
Address: Löwen-Terrasse 1, Lucerne, 6006, Switzerland
Telephone: +41 41 410 43 40

#3 among attractions in Lucerne

Monuments and statues, Top attraction, Baroque architecture, Sculpture

Gallery (11)

Map

Gallery

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Facts and practical information

Nestled in the picturesque city of Lucerne, the Lion Monument, also known as the Lion of Lucerne, is a poignant tribute to the Swiss Guards who were killed during the French Revolution. Carved into the face of a rock, the sculpture depicts a mortally wounded lion lying in a tranquil setting, symbolizing the strength and bravery of the fallen soldiers.

The monument was designed by the Danish sculptor Bertel Thorvaldsen and hewn in 1820-21 by Lukas Ahorn. It serves as a somber reminder of the Massacre of the Swiss Guards in 1792, during the storming of the Tuileries Palace in Paris. The inscription above the sculpture reads "Helvetiorum Fidei ac Virtuti," which translates to "To the loyalty and bravery of the Swiss."

The Lion Monument measures ten meters in length and six meters in height, making it an imposing sight. It has since become one of Lucerne's most visited attractions, drawing tourists from around the world who come to pay their respects and admire the artistry of the sculpture.

Visitors to the monument can also explore the surrounding area, which includes a peaceful pond and lush greenery, providing a serene environment for reflection. The site is easily accessible and open to the public year-round, making it a must-see for those traveling to Lucerne.

Local name: Löwendenkmal Luzern Coordinates: 47°3'30"N, 8°18'39"E

Address

Löwen-Terrasse 1Lucerne 6006 Switzerland

Contact

+41 41 410 43 40

Website

Social media

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Lucerne

Day trips

Lion Monument – popular in the area (distance from the attraction)

Nearby attractions include: Verkehrshaus der Schweiz, Nature Museum, Kapellbrücke, Spreuer Bridge.

1.3 miE
Museum, Observatories and planetariums, Science museum
Verkehrshaus der Schweiz, Lucerne
33 min walk • Nestled on the picturesque shores of Lake Lucerne, the Verkehrshaus der Schweiz, or Swiss Museum of Transport, stands as a testament to the nation's rich heritage in transportation and communication. This comprehensive museum, located in the heart of Lucerne...
0.7 miSW
Museum
Nature Museum, Lucerne
17 min walk • Nestled in the heart of Lucerne, Switzerland, the Nature Museum Lucerne offers an immersive dive into the wonders of the natural world. This museum is a treasure trove for nature enthusiasts and curious minds alike, providing an educational journey through the diverse...
0.5 miS
Iconic winding bridge lined with art
Kapellbrücke, Lucerne
13 min walk • Spanning the Reuss River in the heart of Lucerne, Switzerland, the Kapellbrücke, or Chapel Bridge, is not only a functional crossing but also an emblematic historical monument. Dating back to the 14th century, it is considered to be the oldest wooden covered bridge in...
0.6 miSW
Quaint, centuries-old wooden footbridge
Spreuer Bridge, Lucerne
17 min walk • The Spreuer Bridge in Lucerne is not only a historical crossing but also a work of art that captivates both residents and tourists visiting this picturesque city in Switzerland. Built in the early 16th century, it is one of two preserved wooden bridge structures in...
0.6 miSW
Baroque architecture, Church
Jesuit Church, Lucerne
16 min walk • The Jesuit Church, nestled in the heart of Lucerne, Switzerland, stands as a magnificent testament to Baroque architecture and the city's rich religious history. Its striking facade, with twin onion dome towers, instantly captures the attention of visitors as they...
0.6 miS
Architecture, Convention center, Entertainment
Lucerne Culture and Congress Centre, Lucerne
15 min walk • Nestled in the heart of Switzerland, the Lucerne Culture and Congress Centre (KKL Luzern) stands as a beacon of architectural innovation and a hub for cultural events. This remarkable building, located on the shores of Lake Lucerne and within view of the majestic Swiss...
~1300 ftSE
Landmark church with Gothic towers
Hofkirche, Lucerne
7 min walk • Nestled in the heart of Lucerne, Switzerland, the Hofkirche stands as an emblematic landmark of the city's rich historical tapestry. This magnificent church, officially known as the Church of St. Leodegar, is a prime example of Swiss religious architecture and a...
0.8 miN
Scenic lake used for rowing events
Rotsee, Ebikon
21 min walk • The Rotsee is a natural rowing lake on the northern edge of Lucerne, Switzerland. It is regarded as one of the best rowing venues in the world.
~250 ftSW
Museum, Specialty museum, Cafe
Alpineum, Lucerne
2 min walk • Nestled in the picturesque city of Lucerne, Switzerland, the Alpineum presents a captivating encounter with the grandeur of the Swiss Alps. This unique museum offers visitors an immersive experience, showcasing meticulously crafted dioramas and exhibits that bring the...
0.6 miSW
47°3'8"N • 8°18'13"E
Mühlenplatz, Lucerne
15 min walk • Piers and boardwalks, Civic center, Scenic walking areas
0.6 miS
Museum, Art museum, Specialty museum
The Rosengart Collection, Lucerne
16 min walk • Museum Sammlung Rosengart is an art museum in Lucerne. The art dealer Siegfried Rosengart maintained friendly contacts with various artists such as Pablo Picasso, Joan Miró, Marc Chagall, Henri Matisse, Georges Braque, and Fernand Léger.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

When is Lion Monument open?

Lion Monument is open:

Monday 9 am - 12:30 pm & 1:30 pm - 6 pm
Tuesday 9 am - 12:30 pm & 1:30 pm - 6 pm
Wednesday 9 am - 12:30 pm & 1:30 pm - 6 pm
Thursday 9 am - 12:30 pm & 1:30 pm - 6 pm
Friday 9 am - 12:30 pm & 1:30 pm - 6 pm
Saturday 9 am - 12:30 pm & 1:30 pm - 6 pm
Sunday 9 am - 12:30 pm & 1:30 pm - 6 pm

Which popular attractions are close to Lion Monument?

Nearby attractions include Alpineum, Lucerne (2 min walk), Bourbaki Panorama, Lucerne (3 min walk), Hofkirche, Lucerne (7 min walk), Church of St. Matthew, Lucerne (8 min walk).

How to get to Lion Monument by public transport?

The nearest stations to Lion Monument:

Trolleybus

Wesemlinrain • Lines: 1 (2 min walk)
Löwenplatz • Lines: 1 (4 min walk)

Bus

Wesemlinrain • Lines: 19 (2 min walk)
Löwenplatz • Lines: 19 (4 min walk)

Ferry

Bahnhofquai Steg Nr.4 (13 min walk)
Verkehrshaus-Lido (31 min walk)

Train

Luzern (15 min walk)
Gütschbahn Talstation (21 min walk)