Isted Lion Monument

Address: Isted Lion (Istedløven) monument location in Schleswig (Schleswig-Holstein), Germany

Hours: Public monument (open)

Admission: Free (public monument)

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.

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.

• 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.