Lion of Waterloo undergoes major restoration ahead of 200th anniversary
Renovation work on the Lion of Waterloo, the iconic memorial marking the 1815 Battle of Waterloo, began on Monday, the Buildings Authority announced. More than half a million euros will be invested to ensure the monument is restored in time for its bicentenary in 2026.
According to Public Modernisation minister Vanessa Matz, the works are essential to guarantee visitor safety and to preserve one of Belgium's most symbolic historic sites. Contractor Socatra SA will repair the stairs and railings leading up to the statue, while the pedestal and the lion itself will also be refurbished.
The Lion Mound was erected in 1826 by King Willem I of the Netherlands, reportedly to commemorate the spot where his son, the Prince of Orange, was wounded during the Battle of Waterloo on 18 June 1815. The site, now part of the Domaine de la Bataille de Waterloo, has since become a symbol of monarchical victory.
Visitors must climb 226 steps to reach the 40-metre-high monument. Each year, around 175,000 people visit the landmark in Braine-l'Alleud, Walloon Brabant.
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