Lions' Obelisk: A Symbol of History in Copou Park
Discover the Lions' Obelisk in Iasi's Copou Park: a historic monument celebrating Romanian heritage and the triumph of resilience.
Located in Copou Park, the Lions' Obelisk is a significant monument in Iasi, Romania. The park itself, established in 1834, is the oldest public garden in Iasi and one of the first in Romania. The obelisk, constructed between 1834 and 1841, commemorates the triumph of the Russian-Turkish War of 1806-1812 and the Organic Regulation. The 13.5-meter-tall obelisk is crafted from white marble and features four imposing stone lions at its base. These lions are said to symbolize the four European powers that recognized the independence of the Romanian Lands. Each lion bears a sword with oak branches. The monument was designed by Gheorghe Asachi. Copou Park, where the obelisk is located, offers a serene atmosphere with walking paths, sculptures, and the famous Eminescu's Linden Tree. The park is a popular destination for both tourists and locals, hosting cultural events, poetry festivals, and art exhibitions. The Lions' Obelisk stands as a reminder of Iasi's rich history and cultural heritage.
Local tips
- Visit during weekdays to avoid larger crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience.
- Take time to appreciate the historical context of the obelisk, commemorating the Russian-Turkish War victory and the Organic Regulation.
- Explore the surrounding Copou Park, including Eminescu's Linden Tree and other cultural landmarks.
A brief summary to Lions' Obelisk
- Parcul Copou, Bulevardul Carol I nr. 31, Iași, 700507, RO
Getting There
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Walking
From the Alexandru Ioan Cuza University, walk north along Bulevardul Carol I. Continue for approximately 500 meters, passing the Mihai Eminescu Museum on your right. The Lions' Obelisk will be visible on the right-hand side within Copou Park. There are no costs associated with walking to the Obelisk.
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Public Transport
From the city center (e.g., Piata Unirii), take bus number 28 or 29 towards Copou Park. Tickets can be purchased from vending machines or via the 24Pay app. A single trip ticket costs 3.50 RON. Get off at the 'Copou' or 'Bulevardul Carol I' stop. Walk approximately 5 minutes down Bulevardul Carol I to reach the park entrance and the Obelisk.
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available throughout Iasi. You can hail a taxi on the street or use a ride-hailing app. A taxi ride from the city center to Copou Park typically takes 10-15 minutes, depending on traffic. The estimated cost is between 15-25 RON. Taxi fares generally start around 3.99 RON, with a cost of 3.50 RON per kilometer.
