The panorama was created in just six months by a team of artists led by Louis Dumoulin for the 1912 centenary.
It is one of the few surviving panoramic paintings from the 19th and early 20th century 'panorama craze' that remains in its original location.
The perspective is designed so that the painting surface blends seamlessly with physical props placed in the foreground.
The Lion's Mound, which viewers can climb, was constructed between 1823 and 1826 using soil taken from the battlefield itself.
The panorama underwent a significant restoration project in 2008 to repair damage from humidity and environmental exposure.
The Panorama of the Battle of Waterloo is a monumental 1912 circular canvas measuring 110 meters in circumference and 12 meters in height. Located at the site of the 1815 conflict, it serves as the centerpiece of the Mémorial 1815 complex. The painting by Louis Dumoulin uses a forced perspective technique to immerse viewers in the center of the battlefield. It depicts a specific moment during the afternoon of June 18, 1815, focusing on the cavalry charges. The visitor experience includes an integrated 4D experience and access to the adjacent Lion's Mound monument. The site is situated on the plateau where the Anglo-allied army, led by the Duke of Wellington, held their ground against French forces. The structure housing the painting is a protected cultural heritage site in Belgium. The surrounding memorial complex connects the history of the battle to the broader narrative of the Napoleonic Wars.
The center platform inside the panorama rotunda provides the intended 360-degree viewing angle for photography.
Climb the 226 steps of the Lion's Mound immediately after viewing the panorama to see the actual geography of the battlefield.
Watch the 4D short film at the memorial center before entering the panorama to gain context on the troop movements depicted.
Wear comfortable footwear as the path to the monument involves steep inclines and uneven terrain.
Do not rush through the museum exhibits, as they provide essential context to understand the complex maneuvers shown in the painting.
The site typically remains open year-round, but access to the top of the Lion's Mound may be restricted during severe high winds or icy winter conditions.
Maintain a quiet volume inside the panorama rotunda to respect the viewing experience of others.
