Reformation Wall, Geneva

Tucked away in the serene Parc des Bastions in Geneva, Switzerland, stands the Reformation Wall, a grand memorial that pays homage to the pivotal figures of the Protestant Reformation. This impressive monument, stretching 100 meters in length, is an embodiment of Geneva's significant role in the religious movement that reshaped Christianity in Europe.

Constructed between 1909 and 1917 to commemorate the 400th anniversary of John Calvin's birth and the 350th anniversary of the University of Geneva's establishment, the Reformation Wall is a testament to the city's historical and cultural influence. It is set against the old city walls, symbolizing the fortitude and enduring legacy of the Reformation's leaders.

The monument is dominated by four towering statues of key Reformation figures: John Calvin, William Farel, Théodore de Bèze, and John Knox, each standing 5 meters tall. These central figures are flanked by other influential reformers and statesmen, including Oliver Cromwell and William the Silent, depicted in bas-reliefs that adorn the wall. The monument's inscription, "Post Tenebras Lux" (After Darkness, Light), encapsulates the essence of the Reformation's enlightenment.

Visitors to the Reformation Wall can also explore the surrounding park, the University of Geneva, and the nearby Place de Neuve. The monument remains a place of reflection and a reminder of Geneva's nickname, the "Protestant Rome," due to its critical role in the Reformation.