Isted Lion
Monument 19th-century monument commemorating Schleswig conflicts
A 19th-century monument in Flensburg commemorating the Battle of Isted, the Isted Lion figures in Danish-German history and draws visitors interested in regional 19th-century conflicts and memorials.
The Isted Lion (Istedløven) is a 19th-century war monument originally erected to commemorate the Danish victory at the Battle of Isted (1850). It is closely associated with the history and shifting sovereignties of the Schleswig/Flensburg region.
The statue was unveiled in the 1860s and was subsequently moved during political changes in the region; it spent decades in Copenhagen before being returned to Flensburg in the early 21st century. The monument is a focal point for local memory and commemoration of 19th-century conflicts.
Located in Flensburg within Schleswig-Holstein, the statue stands in an urban setting where it is publicly accessible and visible from surrounding streets. It is often referenced in discussions of Danish-German history in the border region.
- Commemorative history: The monument commemorates the Danish victory at the Battle of Isted and has been moved between Flensburg and Copenhagen over its history.
How to Get to Isted Lion #
Located in the town of Schleswig (Schleswig-Holstein). Reachable by regional train to Schleswig station and a short walk to the town center where the monument is sited.
Tips for Visiting Isted Lion #
- Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid midday glare and to photograph the monument's silhouette against the sky.
- Wear good shoes; the monument sits in a public square with uneven cobbles and some steps.
- Check local museum or city guides for the Isted Lion's history - its movements between Denmark and Germany are a curious diplomatic tale.
Best Time to Visit Isted Lion #
Best visited during fair weather for town walking and photography.
Weather & Climate near Isted Lion #
Isted Lion's climate is classified as Oceanic - Oceanic climate with mild summers (peaking in July) and cold winters (coldest in January). Temperatures range from -1°C to 21°C. Moderate rainfall (879 mm/year).
January
January is the coolest month with highs of 3°C and lows of -1°C. Moderate rainfall (75 mm), mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.
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February
February is cold with highs of 3°C and lows of -1°C. Moderate rainfall (49 mm), mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.
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March
March is cold with highs of 6°C and lows of 0°C. Moderate rainfall (65 mm), mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.
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April
April is cold with highs of 11°C and lows of 2°C. Moderate rainfall (48 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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May
May is cool with highs of 16°C and lows of 7°C. Moderate rainfall (52 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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June
June is cool with highs of 19°C and lows of 10°C. Moderate rainfall (75 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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July
July is cool with highs of 21°C and lows of 12°C. Regular rainfall (83 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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August
August is cool with highs of 21°C and lows of 12°C. Moderate rainfall (75 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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September
September is cool with highs of 17°C and lows of 9°C. Regular rainfall (91 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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October
October is cold with highs of 12°C and lows of 6°C. Regular rainfall (91 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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November
November is cold with highs of 8°C and lows of 2°C. The wettest month with 92 mm of rain, mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.
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December
December is cold with highs of 5°C and lows of 0°C. Regular rainfall (83 mm), mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.
