Two bronze lions. They guard the Löwenbastion. A seemingly simple observation. But their story is far from simple. Right here on the Rudolf-von-Bennigsen-Ufer in Hannover’s Südstadt near Waldhausen stands this imposing structure. The Löwenbastion is more than just a viewing platform. It’s a tangible link to a complex past.
Built in the 1930s during the Nazi era. The Löwenbastion was conceived alongside the creation of the Maschsee lake. It was intended as a grand promenade. A showpiece for the regime. The original design called for crocodile statues. Created by the sculptor Peter Schumacher. Imagine the surprise when they were later relocated. To a garden far away.
Instead two powerful lions now dominate the scene. Sculpted by Arno Breker. A favourite of Hitler himself. These aren’t your cuddly zoo lions. These are imposing figures. Modeled after the Braunschweig Lion. They were installed in 1938. Their presence reflects the ideology of the time. Strength. Domination. A subtle yet potent propaganda tool.
The wrought-iron railing. A testament to the craftsmanship of Siegfried Prütz. Adds to the bastion’s character. It’s a beautiful detail. Often overlooked. The Löwenbastion’s history isn’t simply about grandiose architecture. It’s about the people. The artists. The workers who built it. The regime that commissioned it.
Today the Löwenbastion is a quiet spot. A place for contemplation. It hosts events. Concerts and parties. It’s a popular location during the annual Maschseefest. But beneath the festive atmosphere. Lies the weight of history. A stark reminder of a dark chapter in Hannover’s past. The lions still stand guard. Silent witnesses to the city’s transformation. They may seem to watch over an empty space now. But their history speaks volumes. The Löwenbastion in Hannover. A place of beauty. A place of reflection. And a place where history stands still.