Ready to meet a regal resident of Montreal? We are standing before Le lion de La Feuillée. This is not just any lion. This is a piece of Lyon, France, gifted to Montreal in 1992. The gift marked Montreal’s 350th anniversary.
Le lion de La Feuillée resides at the entrance to the rose garden in Montreal’s Botanical Garden. The lion rests on a base of grey limestone. The sculpture itself is made of green-painted cast iron. Its front feet are stretched out before it.
But why a lion? Lyon’s very name evokes the great feline. The lion symbolizes nobility, strength, resistance, and courage. In 1269, the bourgeoisie of Lyon revolted. They cried “Avant! Avant! Lion le melhor!”. This rallying cry became Lyon’s motto.
Originally, Le lion de La Feuillée was one of four. These lions were designed in 1831. They adorned the Pont de La Feuillée. This bridge crosses the Saône River in Lyon.
Fast forward to 1910. The bridge was reconstructed. The lions were moved to the Lyon Water Department. Later, they guarded the entrance to the Gerland stadium. Finally, in 1992, one lion journeyed to Montreal.
René Dardel, a Lyonnais architect, designed the bridge and its lions. Dardel also designed Lyon’s Palais de la Bourse et du Commerce. Napoleon III inaugurated it in 1860. Dardel’s portfolio includes the Sainte-Blandine church and the Saint-Jean fountain, both in Lyon.
Jacques Audot officially presented Le lion de La Feuillée. This occurred at the opening of Les Entretiens Jacques Cartier in Montreal. Lyon and Montreal had signed an exchange and cooperation protocol in 1989.
Le lion de La Feuillée is more than just a sculpture. It is a symbol of friendship between two cities. It is a reminder of Lyon’s rich history. It embodies courage and strength. It stands as a proud monument in Montreal’s beautiful Botanical Garden. Take a moment to appreciate this gift. Consider the journey it has taken.