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Apotheosis of St. Louis: Forest Park's Gilded Icon

A majestic bronze statue of St. Louis' namesake, King Louis IX, standing tall in Forest Park and a reminder of the city's vibrant history.

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The Apotheosis of St. Louis is a striking statue of King Louis IX of France, the city's namesake, located in front of the Saint Louis Art Museum in Forest Park. This bronze equestrian sculpture, a prominent symbol of St. Louis, depicts the king as a soldier, sword raised, and commemorates the city's rich history.

A brief summary to Apotheosis of St.Louis/Statue of St.Louis

Local tips

  • Take a stroll around Art Hill and the Grand Basin near the statue for scenic views and photo opportunities.
  • Visit the Saint Louis Art Museum, located directly behind the statue, to explore diverse art collections.
  • Check out other nearby attractions in Forest Park, such as the St. Louis Zoo and the Missouri History Museum.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Apotheosis of St. Louis is located directly in front of the Saint Louis Art Museum in Forest Park. From anywhere else within Forest Park, follow paved walking paths towards Art Hill and the museum. The statue is easily visible from afar. No entrance fees are required to access the statue.

  • Public Transport

    The Saint Louis Art Museum, and thus the Apotheosis of St. Louis, can be reached via MetroBus. Several routes service Forest Park, including the 90 (Hampton). Check the Metro Transit website or app for the most up-to-date route information and schedules. A single ride on MetroBus costs $1.

  • Driving

    The Apotheosis of St. Louis is located in front of the Saint Louis Art Museum in Forest Park. Navigate to One Fine Arts Drive, St. Louis, MO 63110. Free parking is available in the lots north of Fine Arts Drive, across from the museum. Paid parking is available in the museum's underground garage for $15 during peak months (March through October) and $10 during off-peak.

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Discover more about Apotheosis of St.Louis/Statue of St.Louis

Dominating the landscape in front of the Saint Louis Art Museum, the Apotheosis of St. Louis is an unmissable landmark and a powerful symbol of the city. The statue portrays King Louis IX of France, for whom St. Louis is named. Depicted as a soldier on horseback, Louis IX is shown with his sword held hilt upwards, forming a cross, symbolizing his leadership in battle and his Christian faith. His ermine cape, adorned with the fleur-de-lis, signifies royalty. The statue is a bronze replica of a plaster statue that stood at the entrance to the 1904 World's Fair. After the fair, the Louisiana Purchase Exposition Company gifted the bronze version to the city in 1906. Designed by Charles Henry Niehaus, with the bronze cast by W.R. Hodges, the statue quickly became a beloved symbol of St. Louis, holding that position until the construction of the Gateway Arch in the 1960s. King Louis IX ruled France from 1226 to 1270. During his reign, he led the Seventh Crusade and was later canonized as a saint in 1297. The statue connects St. Louis to ideals of leadership, strength, valor, and Christianity. The Apotheosis of St. Louis continues to be a reminder of the city's history and the 1904 World's Fair.

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