Lion

Category: Civil Architecture > Monument

District: Lisboa > Lisboa > Lisboa

Location

The Lion monument is located in the city of Lisbon, the capital of Portugal, in the heart of its namesake district and municipality. This emblematic site is situated within the Rotunda Visconde de Alvalade, an important urban artery that serves as a point of confluence and dynamism. Its location is so prominent that the roundabout itself is popularly referred to as Rotunda do Leão, attesting to the undeniable association of the space with this statue.

Positioned centrally at this road junction, the Lion emerges as a visual point of reference and an easily identifiable landmark for those passing through this area. The surrounding environment is characteristically urban, with buildings that embrace the roundabout, giving the statue a prominent presence in the city's landscape and integrating it into the flow of Lisbon's daily life.

History and Symbolism

The Lion statue is a monument of civil architecture with a relevant historical note in its existence. It was officially reinaugurated on June 21, 2017, a moment that marked the renewal of its presence in this prominent location in Lisbon. This event underscores the continuous appreciation for public heritage and urban art, ensuring that the monument continues to beautify and define the landscape of Rotunda Visconde de Alvalade.

As a symbol, the lion is universally recognized for representing attributes such as strength, nobility, courage, and sovereignty. Its presence in the roundabout can thus evoke a sense of grandeur and guardianship of the urban space, conferring a distinctive character to this point in the city. The choice of a lion for this monument may reflect values of resilience and majesty associated with the Portuguese capital.

Sculptural Work and Visual Impact

As a monument, the Lion is a sculptural work that stands out in Lisbon's urban landscape. Although specific artistic details, such as the material it is made of or the sculptor's style, may not be common knowledge, its scale and the figure of the lion itself make it a visually powerful element in the Rotunda Visconde de Alvalade. Its strategic position in the roundabout makes it a focal point that captures the attention of motorists, pedestrians, and public transport users alike who pass by.

The imposing nature of the statue contributes significantly to the character and identity of the place. As a piece of public art, the Lion not only adds aesthetic value to the urban environment but also establishes itself as a cultural reference point and a landmark that enriches the experience of those who visit or reside in Lisbon. Its robustness and the choice of the lion figure convey a sense of permanence and solidity in the city's continuous dynamism.

License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt