Monument to the Lion of Judah

The Monument to the Lion of Judah is a bronze statue standing on a black granite base decorated with relief portraits of Ethiopian rulers near Churchill Avenue. It occupies a prominent location at the southern end of the avenue, serving as a notable landmark in the city center.

Created by French sculptor Georges Gardet in 1930, the statue was removed during the Italian occupation and taken to Rome. It returned to Ethiopia in the 1960s and has remained at its current location since then.

The lion figure represents Ethiopian royal authority and embodies the nation's independence and strength. People see it as a symbol of their country's ability to resist foreign domination.

This statue sits at a central location in the city that is easy to reach on foot and serves as a meeting point for visitors. The surrounding area offers a clear view of the monument and is accessible from the main streets.

A notable aspect: the lion was transported to Rome during foreign occupation and later recovered, becoming a symbol of resistance. This journey of the statue reflects the complex history of the nation.

Location: Addis Ababa

Inception: 1930

Creator: Georges Gardet

Made from material: bronze

GPS coordinates: 9.01086,38.75311

Latest update: December 8, 2025 19:52