Sunday, April 12, 2009

Mt. Pilatus & Lucerne

This is a monument carved out of the side of a rock cliff in Lucerne, Switzerland. Interestingly it is by Bertel Thorvaldsen, the same Danish master who carved the Christus statue. This was an incredibly moving piece and it was carved to honor the 700 Swiss guards who had died defending the palace during the French revolution. Evidenlty Swiss guards are known for political neutrality and their willingness to honor their agreement with the French gov't during the revolution was seen as honorable. Anyways the monument is breathtaking. It is very large and has a reflection pool. Note the broken spear in the side of the lion and the expression on the lion's face.

Burke and Amy in our little 4 man gondola going to the summit of Mt. Pilatus. Yes that is Mt. Pilatus in the distance. The ride was beautiful and very fun, especially since we didn't have to worry about the boys since we had the place to ourselves. The view from Mt. Pilatus was terrific. The video below won't do it justice.

It is rumored that this is the burial place of the roman emporer Pontius Pilate. Villiagers used to avoid the lake on Good Friday since the myth was that Pilate would come out every year and try to wash his hands of Christ's blood in the lake.


2 comments:

Anna B said...

WOW! that monument is beautiful--totally moving.

Linda Bennion said...

The monument is very moving and absolutely gorgeous. I love the face of the lion. Dignity and grief combined! you have seen some amazing sites. Way to bloom where you are planted. I am so proud of the quality in both of you!