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Monument to Leopold I

Commemorating the arrival of Belgium's first king, Leopold I, this monument marks a significant moment in the nation's history in De Panne.

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This monument in De Panne marks the spot where Leopold I, the first King of Belgium, arrived in the country on July 17, 1831. The impressive monument, featuring a bronze statue of the sovereign, commemorates this important moment in Belgian history.

A brief summary to Monument aan Leopold I

Local tips

  • Take a stroll along the Leopold I Esplanade to enjoy the sea views and fully appreciate the monument's setting.
  • Visit on a clear day to capture the best photos of the monument against the backdrop of the sea.
  • Read the Latin inscription on the monument to understand its historical significance.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Monument to Leopold I is located on the Leopold I Esplanade in De Panne. From the center of De Panne, head towards the sea. The monument is easily accessible by foot from most points in the town center. The walk is generally flat and takes about 10-15 minutes from the main square.

  • Public Transport

    The Kusttram (coastal tram) provides easy access to De Panne. Take the tram to the 'De Panne Centrum' stop. From there, it's a short walk to the Leopold I Esplanade and the monument. A single fare on the Kusttram is approximately €3. The tram runs frequently, with service every 15 minutes.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are available in De Panne, particularly at the train station and in the town center. A taxi ride from the De Panne train station to the Leopold I Esplanade will cost approximately €16-€20 and take about 5 minutes. Taxi Anker and Taxi Alpha Oostende are local taxi services.

  • Driving

    If driving, navigate to Leopold I Esplanade, 8660 De Panne. Parking is available in the vicinity, including on-street parking and parking areas along the esplanade. Parking locations nearby include Koningsplein, and Dynastielaan. Parking fees vary but expect to pay around €1-€2 per hour. Be aware that parking can be limited during peak season.

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Discover more about Monument aan Leopold I

The Monument to Leopold I stands as a reminder of a pivotal moment in Belgian history. It commemorates the arrival of Leopold I, the first King of Belgium, who first set foot on Belgian soil here on July 17, 1831. After being considered for the position, Leopold arrived by ship from England in Calais, France. He then traveled to De Panne by coach, marking his entry into Belgium. He later proceeded to Brussels and took his oath as the first King of the Belgians on July 21. The monument itself is located at the end of the Leopold I Esplanade. The bronze statue of Leopold I was created by artist René Cliquet and is situated within a triumphal arch designed by architect Victor Martiny. The monument was created by the National Committee of the Monument Leopold I in De Panne. It was inaugurated on October 5, 1958, by Mayor Gevaert, in the presence of King Boudewijn and Prime Minister Gaston Eyskens. The arch bears a Latin inscription: "Hic Leopoldus primus Belgarum rex XVIIa die mensis Julii Ao MDCCCXXXI terram belgicam ingressus est et solemniter receptus," which translates to: "Here, on the 17th day of the month of July in 1831, Leopold, the first king of Belgium, arrived on Belgian soil and was solemnly received".

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