Leibniz monument

The Leibniz monument is a bronze sculpture on the grounds of Leipzig University depicting a standing figure of the philosopher. At its base are four female allegories representing Philosophy, Jurisprudence, Theology, and Medicine, which frame and complete the sculptural composition.

Sculptor Ernst Julius Hähnel created the monument, which was inaugurated in 1883 and originally stood at Thomaskirchhof. It was relocated multiple times and has stood on the university grounds since 2008.

The statue shows Leibniz resting against a globe while holding an open book, symbolizing his role as a scholar who shaped learning at the university. Around the main figure sit four female allegories representing different fields of knowledge that Leibniz influenced.

The monument stands in the courtyard of the Leibnizforum within the university grounds and is accessible year-round. The location has wheelchair access, making it reachable for all visitors.

The monument survived the bombing of Leipzig in 1943, even though many buildings in the city were destroyed. Its survival makes it a rare witness to the prewar era standing in the urban landscape.

Location: Leipzig

Inception: 1883

Creator: Ernst Julius Hähnel

Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible

Address: Universitätsstraße

GPS coordinates: 51.33908,12.37851

Latest update: December 9, 2025 12:20