Explore the Historic Lion's Mound: A Commemoration of the Battle of Waterloo
Discover the Lion's Mound, a historic landmark commemorating the Battle of Waterloo, offering stunning views and rich insights into European history.
The Lion's Mound, or Butte du Lion, is a remarkable historical landmark located in Braine-l'Alleud, Belgium, commemorating the famous Battle of Waterloo that took place in 1815. This impressive artificial hill, which stands at 40 meters high, is topped with a striking lion statue symbolizing the courage of the soldiers who fought in this pivotal battle. As a visitor, you can climb the 226 steps to reach the summit, where you are rewarded with panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, including the battlefield itself. The site offers a profound insight into the events that shaped European history, making it a must-visit for history enthusiasts and casual tourists alike. The Lion's Mound is not just a monument; it is part of a larger historical park that includes exhibits and information centers detailing the significance of the battle. Visitors can explore various aspects of the conflict through multimedia displays and guided tours that provide a deeper understanding of the strategies and consequences of the battle. The ambiance of the site is both reflective and educational, attracting tourists from around the globe who come to pay their respects to the legacy of those who fought. For those planning a visit, the best time to explore is early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the serene beauty of the site. The surrounding area is also rich with other historical attractions that can enhance your experience, making the Lion's Mound a central point for a fascinating exploration of the Battle of Waterloo and its enduring impact on European history.
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds and better lighting for photos.
- Wear comfortable shoes for the climb to the top, as there are 226 steps to reach the lion statue.
- Check for guided tour availability to get the most out of your visit with detailed historical insights.
- Explore the surrounding areas for additional historical sites related to the Battle of Waterloo.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning panoramic views from the top of the mound.
A brief summary to Lion's Mound
- Rte du Lion 1815, Braine-l'Alleud, Braine-L'Alleud, 1420, BE
- +3223851912
- Visit website
- Monday 10 am-5:30 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-5:30 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-5:30 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5:30 pm
- Friday 10 am-5:30 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5:30 pm
- Sunday 10 am-6:30 pm
Getting There
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Train
From Leuven, head to the Leuven train station (Stationplein, 3000 Leuven). Take the train towards Braine-l'Alleud, which typically requires a transfer at Brussels-Midi station. Once you arrive at Brussels-Midi, switch to a train heading towards Charleroi-Sud or Namur and get off at Braine-l'Alleud station. From the station, exit and walk towards the south on Rue de la Station, then continue straight onto Rue du Lion. After about a 20-minute walk, you will reach Lion's Mound at Rte du Lion 1815.
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Bus
From Leuven, make your way to the bus station at the train station (Stationplein, 3000 Leuven). Take bus line 600 or 620 towards Brussels and get off at the Braine-l'Alleud stop. From there, walk northeast on Avenue des Combattants, then turn left onto Rte du Lion. Continue straight for about 15 minutes until you reach Lion's Mound located at Rte du Lion 1815.
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Bicycle
If you prefer cycling, rent a bike in Leuven and head out towards Braine-l'Alleud. Take the cycle route via the R42 road heading southwest. Follow the road signs for Braine-l'Alleud. The ride is approximately 12 kilometers and should take around 40-50 minutes. Once in Braine-l'Alleud, follow Rte du Lion directly to Lion's Mound.
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Walking
If you are feeling adventurous and want a longer trek, you can walk from Leuven to Braine-l'Alleud. Start from the center of Leuven and head southwest towards the outskirts of the city, following the signs towards Braine-l'Alleud. It is approximately a 12-kilometer walk which could take around 2.5 to 3 hours. Follow Rte du Lion when you enter Braine-l'Alleud to reach Lion's Mound.
