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Lion Monument, Lucerne

4.3
#4 of 101 in Things to do in Lucerne
Monument · Tourist Spot
Carved in rock to commemorate the Swiss soldiers who died during the French Revolution, the touching Lion Monument inspired Mark Twain to call it "the most mournful and moving piece of stone in the world." Designed by Danish sculptor Bertel Thorvaldsen in 1819, the colossal monument depicts a mortally wounded lion taking his final breath in a sheltered stone lair, his front paws resting against the broken symbols of the French monarchy. Surrounded by lush trees, the dying lion seems far removed from the city's noise, his facial expression one of heart-rending agony. Don't forget your camera. Take a look at our Lucerne trip planner to schedule your visit to Lion Monument and learn about what else to see and do during your holiday.
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Tours to Lion Monument

FROM $113 BOOK WITH VIATOR Lucerne Walking and Boat Tour: The Best Swiss Experience
5.0
Duration: 3 hours
Tours from $113 »
FROM $155 BOOK WITH VIATOR Private Classic Lucerne City Walk
5.0
Duration: 2 hours
Tours from $155 »
FROM $141 BOOK WITH VIATOR Lucerne's Past and Present with Local
5.0
Duration: 2 hours
Tours from $141 »

Lion Monument reviews

Rate this attraction
TripAdvisor traveler rating
TripAdvisor traveler rating 4.5
4,609 reviews
Google
4.4
TripAdvisor
  • By Karl L
    There are plenty of monuments to dead soldiers around the world but this one to the Swiss Guards who lost their lives defending King Louis in the French Revolution is so well carved and symbolic...  more »
  • By IsaureL_12
    I love this statue as the expression on its face is so life like. The park was not full. The story is written by the front gate which is very interesting  more »
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Google
  • By Duong N. Phong
    Nice place to visit. The lion has a interesting story behind it. Better go visit in day time. They are currently building something in front of the lion, don’t know how long it will take
  • By Quick pro Cook
    Oh so sad the lion looked. The famous statue of the dying lion is a must visit if you are in Luzern. It is a short walk from the City Centre. Currently, the surroundings are being renovated and you can see the lion from a viewing platform. There is the Glacier Garden right beside the monument.
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