Monument of Leopold II in Ostend, Bronze equestrian monument on Royal Galleries, Ostend, Belgium
The monument depicts Leopold II in military dress mounted on horseback atop a stone column with a double-L base monogram. This sculptural composition was created in 1931 by artist Alfred Courtens and architect Antoine Courtens.
The monument was erected in 1931 as a portrayal of Leopold II as a benefactor of Ostend and Belgian Congo. It received protection status as a cultural landmark in 1981.
The bronze groups at the base show figures representing Ostend fishermen and Congolese people together. These sculptures reflect how people once viewed trade and colonial expansion.
The monument stands near the North Sea beach at the Royal Galleries, making it easily accessible to visitors. You can view it from nearby streets and public spaces without restrictions.
In 2004, protesters removed one hand from the Congolese figure as a statement against colonial brutality. This act highlights how the monument remains contested today and embodies different understandings of history.
Location: Ostend
Inception: 1931
Architects: Antoine Courtens
Creator: Alfred Courtens
Address: Koninginnelaan
GPS coordinates: 51.22719,2.90459
Latest update: December 11, 2025 11:04
Casino Kursaal Ostend
723 m
Royal Galleries of Ostend
175 m
Leopoldpark
636 m
Postgebouw van Oostende
835 m
Drie Gapers
30 m
Villa Maritza
360 m
Mu.ZEE - Kunstmuseum aan Zee
717 m
Venetiaanse Gaanderijen
66 m
Royal Stables
654 m
Baudouin I
218 m
Japanse Tuin
139 m
Villa Francine
267 m
Sint-Jozefskerk
674 m
Museum voor Schone Kunsten
716 m
Provinciaal Museum voor Moderne Kunst
722 m
Heilig Hartkerk
685 m
Synagogue, Ostend
743 m
Woning Deweert
796 m
Statue of Leopold I
419 m
La Paloma, Ostend
619 m
Kursaal
729 m
Umbra
563 m
Altar
230 m
The Sea
758 m
Sorry
603 m
The Lioness
651 m
Dancing Waves
720 m
James Ensor Monument
733 mVisited this place? Tap the stars to rate it and share your experience / photos with the community! Try now! You can cancel it anytime.
Discover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes