About The Battle of the Nations Monument
The Battle of the Nations Monument near Leipzig was dedicated one hundred years after the momentous Battle of Leipzig, also known as the Battle of the Nations, took place.
History of The Battle of the Nations Monument
One of the major battles of the Napoleonic Wars, the Battle of the Nations was fought from 16 to 18 October 1813 between Napoleon’s French army, which included many soldiers from the Confederation of the Rhine, and those of the countries of the Sixth Coalition. This coalition was formed to fight Napoleon and included Britain, Austria, Prussia, Russia and Sweden, as well as numerous German States.
The Battle of the Nations claimed around 100,000 lives and marked one of Napoleon’s greatest defeats. In fact, following the Battle of the Nations, the French emperor was driven out of Germany. Later, this coalition would invade France (1814), forcing him into exile to the Italian island of Elba.
The Battle of the Nations Monument Today
Located near Napoleon’s command post in the battle, the Battle of the Nations Monument is a vast 91 metre high temple near Leipzig commemorating both the battle itself and those who died during the fighting. It took fifteen years to build and today the Battle of the Nations Monument includes a museum about the battle, the Forum 1813 museum. This museum uses over 350 original pieces to paint a picture of the Battle of the Nations, including uniforms, pictures and weaponry.
Guided tours of the Battle of the Nations Monument take place Tuesdays at 3pm and audio guides are available in English, German, French and Spanish.
Getting to The Battle of the Nations Monument
The Battle of the Nations Monument is located just on the outskirts of the city of Leipzig in Germany. From the city centre, head southbound on the 2 (ringroad) continuing onto Prager Street. Very shortly you will see the Battle of the Nations Monument on your right. There is parking nearby.
