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Viewpoint · Waterloo, Brabante Valão
Butte du Lion
Artificial hill 43 metres high, with 226 steps, erected between 1823 and 1826 on the Waterloo battlefield. At the top, a cast-iron lion and a view over the whole battlefield.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About Butte du Lion
The Butte du Lion is a 43-metre earth mound erected in the middle of the Waterloo battlefield. It was commissioned by King William I of the Netherlands, who ruled the region at the time, and built between 1823 and 1826.
The hill marks the spot where the Prince of Orange, the king's son, is said to have been wounded during the battle of 18 June 1815. The soil was taken from the battlefield itself, which altered the contours of part of the terrain.
At the top stands a cast-iron lion of about 28 tonnes, with its paw on a sphere, facing França. There are 226 steps to reach it.
From up there you can make sense of the battle's geography: the road to Bruxelas, the Ferme d'Hougoumont on the right and the ground over which the French cavalry advanced. Orientation panels at the top help locate each point.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
Thirty to forty minutes to climb, take in the view and descend.
Best time
On a dry day with good visibility. In wind and rain the top is exposed and the stair becomes slippery. In the late afternoon, the low light brings out the field's relief.
How to get there
The climb starts beside the Mémorial 1815, on the Route du Lion, in Braine-l'Alleud. From Waterloo town centre it's about 5 km by car or by the TEC W bus.
Tip
There are 226 steps with no resting platform: go at your own pace. Bring a windbreaker even in summer. Visit the Mémorial before climbing so you can recognise the battle points from above.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Butte du Lion
How many steps does the Butte du Lion have?
There are 226 steps up to the lion at the top, 43 metres high.
Why is there a lion in Waterloo?
The monument marks the spot where the Prince of Orange was said to have been wounded in the battle. The lion was placed atop the mound in 1826.