Introduction
The Gëlle Fra, or “Golden Lady”, is a 20-meter tall memorial statue located in Luxembourg City, Luxembourg. The statue is dedicated to the memory of the nation’s war dead and was unveiled in 1923. It is one of the most iconic landmarks of the city and a popular destination for tourists.
History of the Gëlle Fra
The Gëlle Fra is a tribute to the inhabitants of Luxembourg who lost their lives in World War I. It was first erected in 1923 after a successful fundraising campaign, and an additional statue was added in 1947 to commemorate the heroes of World War II. The memorial consists of two bronze figures, a woman holding a laurel wreath and a man holding a sword aloft.
The Gëlle Fra stands in the Place de la Constitution, a public square in the city center. It has become a symbol of national pride and unity, representing the strength of the Luxembourg people. The statue was originally designed by French sculptor Paul-Henry Giot, and the current bronze figures were created by Virginio Bettini in 1951.
Interesting Facts about The Gëlle Fra
The Gëlle Fra is one of the most recognizable landmarks in Luxembourg City. Over the years, it has become a popular destination for tourists. Here are some interesting facts about the memorial that you should know:
- The Gëlle Fra is a part of the Luxembourg City UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- The memorial is 20 meters tall, with the figures standing 3.5 meters high.
- The statue is lit up at night, making it even more impressive.
- The figures of the Gëlle Fra are often adorned with flowers or wreaths on special occasions.
- The memorial is located in the Place de la Constitution, which is also home to the Grand Duke’s Palace and the National Museum of History and Art.
Visiting The Gëlle Fra
The Gëlle Fra is a popular tourist destination, and it can be easily reached from any part of Luxembourg City. The memorial is open to visitors at all times and is well-maintained by the local authorities. The best time to visit the Gëlle Fra is in the evening, when the statue is lit up and looks even more impressive.
The memorial is located in a central area of the city and is a great place to take photos. You can also explore the surrounding area, which is home to many other attractions, such as the Grand Duke’s Palace and the National Museum of History and Art.
Conclusion
The Gëlle Fra is an iconic monument in Luxembourg City and a symbol of national pride. It stands as a tribute to the people of Luxembourg who lost their lives in World War I and World War II. The memorial is well-maintained and is open to visitors at all times. The best time to visit the Gëlle Fra is in the evening, when the statue is illuminated and looks even more impressive. Whether you’re a tourist or a local, the Gëlle Fra is sure to leave you with a lasting impression.