Nittany Lion Shrine

The Nittany Lion Shrine is a mountain lion sculpture carved from Indiana limestone, positioned in a defensive stance near the Recreation Building on campus. The white figure is surrounded by trees and decorative stones that frame the installation.

The sculptor Heinz Warneke carved this work from a 13-ton limestone block and dedicated it during the 1942 homecoming celebration. The artist returned to perform significant restoration work in 1978 after the sculpture sustained damage over the decades.

The lion serves as a university symbol that students protect and celebrate during home football games. The sculpture embodies school pride and regional identity that visitors feel when arriving on campus.

The sculpture is accessible by pathways and features lighting that allows visitors to photograph it throughout the day and evening hours. Its location near the Recreation Building makes it easy to reach and spend time viewing the work while exploring campus.

The sculpture's right ear has required multiple repairs after sustaining damage over the years. This detail reflects both the work's long history and the campus community's efforts to maintain it.

Location: Pennsylvania

Inception: October 24, 1942

Creator: Heinz Warneke

Made from material: Indiana limestone

GPS coordinates: 40.79682,-77.86907

Latest update: December 8, 2025 19:52