Monument Léopold II: A Glimpse into Belgian History
Discover the Monument Léopold II in Brussels, a historical landmark reflecting Belgium's complex past and artistic heritage on Place du Trône.
Located on the Place du Trône (Troonplein) in Brussels, the Monument Léopold II stands as a tribute to King Léopold II, Belgium's second monarch. The equestrian statue, created by Thomas Vinçotte and finalized by architect François Malfait, was inaugurated in 1926. The monument commemorates Léopold II's reign, a period marked by both significant urban development in Belgium and controversial colonial pursuits in the Congo. The statue itself depicts Léopold II in military attire, mounted on a horse. The monument's location, near the Royal Palace and the European Parliament, places it at the intersection of Belgian history and modern European politics. While the monument stands as a piece of art and a historical landmark, it also invites reflection on Belgium's colonial past and its complex legacy. The statue has been the subject of controversy and vandalism due to Leopold II's rule in the Congo Free State, leading to ongoing debates about how history is remembered and represented in public spaces.
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for the best lighting for photography and fewer crowds.
- Take time to read the inscriptions around the monument for a deeper understanding of its historical significance.
- Combine your visit with a stroll in the nearby Parc de Bruxelles for a relaxing afternoon.
- Check out nearby cafes and shops to experience the local culture and enjoy a snack or drink.
- Consider visiting during a guided tour to learn more about the history and controversies surrounding the monument.
A brief summary to Monument Léopold II
- Troonplein 9/1, Brussels, Pentagone, 1000, BE
Getting There
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Walking
From Brussels Central Station, exit the station and head towards the Place Royale. Walk along Rue de la Régence until you reach the Place Royale. Take Rue de la Science on your left and continue walking until you reach the Place du Trône. The Monument Léopold II is located at Place du Trône 9/1. The walk is approximately 20 minutes.
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Public Transport
From Brussels Central Station, take metro line 1 or 5 towards Stockel or Hermann-Debroux. Get off at Parc station. Walk through Parc de Bruxelles until you reach the end, then turn left onto Rue de la Science and continue to Troonplein. The monument is located at Troonplein 9/1. A single metro ticket costs €2.10.
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available throughout Brussels. A taxi from Brussels Central Station to the Monument Léopold II will cost approximately €11-€17, depending on traffic and time of day. Taxi fares in Brussels include a base fare of €2.60, a price per kilometer of €2.30, and a price per minute of €0.60. There may be a €2 surcharge for rides between 10 PM and 6 AM.
Attractions Nearby to Monument Léopold II
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Palais du Coudenberg
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Koningsplein - Beeld van Godfried van Bouillon
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experience.brussels (eB!)
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Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium
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Magritte Museum
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Musical Instruments Museum
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BOZAR
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Statue of Counts Egmont and Hoorn
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Parc de Bruxelles
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Square of Petit Sablon
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Laurent Gerbaud
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Monument Frère-Orban
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Church of Our Lady of Victories at the Sablon
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Garden of the Kunstberg
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The Glacière
Landmarks nearby to Monument Léopold II
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Monument Léopold II
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Palace Of The Count Of Flanders
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Pl. Royale
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Former Cleves-Ravenstein Mansion
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Saint-Boniface square
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Pl. du Petit Sablon
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Pl. du Petit Sablon 12
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Luxembourg Square
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Pl. du Luxembourg
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SQUARE Brussels Meeting Centre
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Mont des Arts
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Birthplace of Audrey Hepburn
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Brux./Brus.-Luxemb.
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Parlamentarium
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Grand Sablon