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Apotheosis of St. Louis: A Symbol of the City

A majestic bronze statue of King Louis IX in Forest Park, symbolizing St. Louis' history and artistic heritage in front of the Art Museum.

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The Apotheosis of St. Louis is a striking bronze equestrian statue of King Louis IX of France, the namesake of St. Louis, Missouri. Located in front of the Saint Louis Art Museum in Forest Park, it has been a prominent symbol of the city since its unveiling in 1906. The statue depicts the king as a soldier, with his raised sword and ermine cape indicating royalty and leadership.

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

Local tips

  • Visit during the day to fully appreciate the details of the statue and its surroundings.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to the Saint Louis Art Museum, which is located directly behind the statue.
  • Explore the rest of Forest Park, which offers a variety of attractions, including the St. Louis Zoo and the Missouri History Museum.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    The Saint Louis Art Museum, where the Apotheosis statue is located, is accessible via the MetroLink light rail system. The Skinker Station is approximately 0.8 miles from the Museum, about a 15-minute walk. Alternatively, the Forest Park-DeBaliviere Station is located at the intersection of DeBaliviere Avenue and Forest Park Parkway, just north of Forest Park. From either station, follow the signs and pathways leading to the Art Museum. A single MetroLink fare costs $3.

  • Walking

    From within Forest Park, follow the paved paths towards Art Hill and the Saint Louis Art Museum. The statue is located directly in front of the museum. Walking from other attractions in Forest Park, such as the Missouri History Museum or the St. Louis Zoo, will take approximately 15-30 minutes, depending on your starting point.

  • Driving

    From I-64, take Exit 34A for Fine Arts Drive. Follow Fine Arts Drive to the Saint Louis Art Museum. Free public parking is available in the two lots located on the north side of Fine Arts Drive, across from the Museum. Accessible parking is available in the public lots and in the parking garage. Paid parking is available in the Museum's underground parking garage for $15 daily.

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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 more than just a statue; it's a symbol of the city's rich history and cultural heritage. The bronze statue portrays King Louis IX of France, the city's namesake, as a regal soldier on horseback. His sword, held hilt upwards, forms a cross, signifying his Christian faith and leadership in battle. The horse appears to move forward, and the king's ermine cape, adorned with fleur-de-lis, adds to the sense of royalty. The statue is a replica of a plaster statue that was displayed at the 1904 World's Fair. After the fair, the Louisiana Purchase Exposition Company decided to donate a bronze version to the city. Sculptor Charles Henry Niehaus offered to create the bronze version, but the company chose a lower bid from local artist W.R. Hodges. The statue was unveiled at its current location on October 4, 1906, and served as the city's primary symbol until the completion of the Gateway Arch in 1965. Over the years, the statue has become an integral part of St. Louis' identity. It has been featured in logos, and its image is used by the 138th Infantry Regiment of the U.S. Army and Missouri National Guard. The statue has also been the subject of urban legends and even controversy, with some activists calling for its removal due to King Louis IX's history of antisemitism. Despite these challenges, the Apotheosis of St. Louis remains a beloved landmark and a testament to the city's enduring spirit.

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