Snapshot: The Lion Monument- a visual feast

From far, the majestic creature looks like it’s resting under the afternoon sun, except that its forlorn expression betrays its state of mind. The lion is not relaxing, but dying. This regal sculpture is a tribute to the Swiss Guards who were massacred during the French Revolution in 1792.

The Lion Monument rests in Lucerne, Switzerland, designed by Bertel Thorvaldsen and crafted in 1820–21 by Lukas Ahorn. Its creation is no easy feat, since it’s carved from the rock on the side of the cliff where it rests upon, measuring a staggering ten meters in length and six meters in height. The craftsmanship is so detailed and skilful, that Mark Twain had praised the gigantic sculpture as “the most mournful and moving piece of stone in the world.”

The idea to create the monument was brought about by an officer of the Guards- Karl Pfyffer von Altishofen, who was lucky enough to be on leave at the time of the fight. If you look closely, the lion is dying, having impaled by a spear, with its paws covering a shield bearing the fleur-de-lis (the symbol) of the French monarchy. And beside it is another shield, bearing the coat of arms of Switzerland. And below the sculpture is the list of names of the officers who perished.

The Lion Monument rests in a small park just off the Lowenplatz in Lucerne, and is one of the most popular sights in the city.

Where: Lucerne, Switzerland