Lion of Belfort, Monumental sculpture at Citadel, Belfort, France
Description
The Lion of Belfort is a monumental sandstone sculpture positioned beneath the fortress walls, immediately striking visitors by its sheer size. The reclining figure rests one paw upon an arrow, creating an image of both strength and contemplation.
History
Sculptor Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi completed this work in 1880 as a memorial to Belfort's defense during the Franco-Prussian War of 1870-1871. The city had resisted a long siege, becoming a symbol of French resistance during that conflict.
Culture
The sculpture represents resistance and determination for the people who live here, serving as a symbol of collective memory. Visitors often pause at the base to read the inscription dedicated to those who defended the city.
Practical
The sculpture sits on the citadel grounds and is freely accessible to visitors at any time of day. Arriving early offers a better chance to view and photograph the monument without large crowds.
Did you know?
The dedication inscription at the base was added in 1890 after funds collected from visitor donations were used to commission the engraving. This shows how the community valued the monument enough to contribute collectively to completing it.
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide. Discover all places nearby (Belfort).
Belfort citadel
70 m
Belfort Cathedral
233 m
Musées de Belfort
15 m
Maison (18 rue Metzger, Belfort)
214 m
Citadelle de Belfort
4 m
History Museum of Belfort
11 m
Town hall of Belfort : Belfort city concil room
196 m
Orgue de tribune de la cathédrale Saint-Christophe de Belfort
233 m
Gouverneur Hotel
151 mTour des Bourgeois
257 m
École Jules-Heidet
205 mScenic viewpoint
8 mScenic viewpoint
186 mScenic viewpoint
18 mScenic viewpoint
33 mScenic viewpoint
31 mMemorial, Obelisk
249 mLe Lion de l'E2C
191 m103
194 mStatue Quand-Même
253 mChar Sherman "CORNOUAILLES"
201 mAux soldats de la 2e division polonaise
169 mMemorial, commemorative plaque
26 mClaude-Jacques Lecourbe
253 mCannon
18 mMemorial
98 mMemorial
138 mCannon
14 mDiscover 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