The Duke of Brunswick left his entire fortune of 20 million francs to Geneva provided they built a monument identical to the Scaliger Tombs.
The monument was constructed between 1874 and 1879.
The bronze lions surrounding the base were sculpted by Auguste Cain.
The Duke's eccentric final request included specific instructions for the monument's architectural design and its placement in a prominent location.
The project caused significant political controversy in Geneva at the time due to the Duke's unpopularity and the sheer expense of the construction.
The Brunswick Monument is a 19th-century mausoleum located in the Jardin des Alpes in Geneva. It was commissioned by Charles II, Duke of Brunswick, who bequeathed his substantial fortune to the city of Geneva on the condition that a monument be built in his honor. The structure is a direct replica of the Scaliger Tombs in Verona, Italy, designed by architect Jean Franel in the Neo-Gothic style. The monument houses the sarcophagus of the Duke, who died in 1873. It features elaborate marble sculptures, intricate stone carvings, and protective bronze lions. The monument is situated prominently along the Quai du Mont-Blanc. It serves as a rare example of extravagant funerary architecture in a Swiss public park setting.
From the south side of the park looking toward the monument with the Jardin des Alpes greenery in the foreground.
Walk the full perimeter to view the distinct bronze lions and sculptural reliefs on all four sides.
The monument is located within a small park that offers benches for resting while viewing the details.
Combine your visit with a walk along the adjacent lakeshore for views of the Jet d'Eau.
Do not treat the monument as a climbing structure, as it is a protected historical site with delicate marble elements.
