Lion Monument

Overview

The Lion Monument (Löwendenkmal) is a rock relief sculpture carved into sandstone in 1820–1821, commemorating the ~760 Swiss Guards killed at the Tuileries Palace on August 10, 1792.

Highlights

• Emotional Impact: Mark Twain called it "the most mournful and moving piece of stone in the world."
• Natural Setting: Shaded grotto beside a reflecting pond.
• Scale: About 10 meters long by 6 meters high, carved into living rock.

History

Commissioned by Karl Pfyffer von Altishofen, a former Swiss Guards officer. The inscription lists the names of the fallen officers.

Visitor Tips

• Tip 1: Visit early morning to avoid tour groups.
• Tip 2: The reflecting pond provides a beautiful mirrored image.
• Duration: 15–20 minutes.