Statue of Leopold II, Protected monument in Ekeren, Belgium.
The statue of Leopold II in Ekeren is a bronze sculpture showing the king in a formal royal pose. Joseph Ducaju crafted it with careful attention to the details of ceremonial dress and posture.
The monument was inaugurated in 1873 to honor a king who ruled Belgium from 1865 to 1909. His legacy is deeply intertwined with Congo, where he wielded significant influence during his reign.
This monument has become a focal point for conversations about Belgium's colonial past and how societies remember their leaders. The statue now exists in a context where its presence invites reflection rather than simple admiration.
The statue is located near a church in Ekeren and is accessible on foot. The location may change, so checking ahead of a visit is worthwhile given recent discussions about its future placement.
Red paint and scorch marks on the bronze surface show the physical impact of recent protests and social movements. These marks document a moment when public debate literally changed the appearance of the monument itself.
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