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.
Tours to Lion Monument
Lion Monument reviews
-
We visited toward the end of April. Unfortunately they were still cleaning the monument. It was completely covered the first day we were there and the water was drained. The second day they were...
We visited toward the end of April. Unfortunately they were still cleaning the monument. It was completely covered the first day we were there and the water was drained. The second day they were... more »
-
It was a cold and foggy day in Lucerne. We walked from the train station to the Lowendenkmal(about 20 minutes). It is nestled in a rocky grotto in a park area. There is no entrance fee and people..... more
It was a cold and foggy day in Lucerne. We walked from the train station to the Lowendenkmal(about 20 minutes). It is nestled in a rocky grotto in a park area. There is no entrance fee and people..... more »
-
We were going through the centre of Luzern one day evening. And it was magical. Some parts of town has fairy-tale atmosphere, like these on the pics. On the first one is statue, on the second one toilets next to the statue and on the last one is café situated just in front of the statue area. I wish everyone enjoy the attractive place.
-
A huge sculpture of lion carved from the stone. Although the history is very sad but it is a majestic piece of art work that you see here. A big respect to the people for the memory of whom it was constructed. It is a part of the walking tour that you take with your guide in the city, so you are well informed about the history behind it. Really impressive.
Plan your trip to Lucerne
Get a personalized tripA full day by day itinerary based on your preferences Customize itRefine your trip. We'll find the
best routes and schedules Book itChoose from the best hotels and activities. Up to 50% off Manage itEverything in one place. Everyone on the same page.Know more
Popular things to do in Lucerne
Side trips from Lucerne
Hidden gems in Lucerne
Historic Sites in Lucerne
Museums in Lucerne
Nearby attractions in Lucerne
Trips in Lion Monument by other users
17 days in Western Europe
SEE PLAN
Amsterdam
Paris
Lucerne
15 days in Switzerland & Italy
SEE PLAN
Zurich
Lucerne
Interlaken
15 days in Switzerland & Italy
SEE PLAN
Zurich
Lucerne
Interlaken
9 days in Western Europe
SEE PLAN
Bruges
Amsterdam
Hamburg
15 days in Switzerland & Italy
SEE PLAN
Zurich
Lucerne
Interlaken
15 days in France, Switzerland & Germany
SEE PLAN
Paris
Bayeux
Lyon