Reformation Monument

Reformation Monument

Commonly known as the Reformation Wall, the Reformation Monument is a memorial in Geneva, Switzerland, stretching 100 meters and featuring sculptures and reliefs that depict key figures of the European Reformation. The monument is located within the University of Geneva, founded by John Calvin, at the site of the old city walls, highlighting Geneva’s importance in the Reformation.

The monument was erected in 1909 to commemorate the 400th anniversary of Calvin’s birth and the 350th anniversary of the university. Among 72 design submissions from around the world, the winning design was by four Swiss architects, while the sculptures were created by two French sculptors. During the Reformation, Geneva was the center of Calvinism, and its history and heritage since the 16th century have been closely tied to Protestantism. Thus, the monument prominently features major figures of the Calvinist movement, as well as some key personalities from other denominations: Theodore Beza (1519–1605), John Calvin (1509–1564), William Farel (1489–1565), and John Knox (c.1513–1572). To its left are 3-meter-tall statues of William I (the Silent) (1533–1584), Gaspard de Coligny (1519–1572), and Frederick William, Elector of Brandenburg (1620–1688). To its right are also 3-meter-tall statues of Roger Williams (1603–1684), Oliver Cromwell (1599–1658), and Stephen Bocskay (1557–1606). Along the wall, and on either side of the central statues, are inscribed the mottos of the Reformation and of Geneva: “Post Tenebras Lux” (“After darkness, light”). The base of the central statue bears the Christian symbol: ΙΗΣ. In 1946, the eminent Hungarian poet Gyula Illyés wrote the poem "Before the Reformation Monument in Geneva."

Reformation Monument

Reason to visit: Switzerland’s most famous Reformation Wall

Continent: Europe【Europe】

Country/Region: Switzerland[Switzerland]

Province/State: Canton of Geneva [Canton of Geneva]

City: Geneva [Geneva]