What’s the Story With the Lion Statues in Denver?

Denver is lined with historic architecture, especially in the Capitol Hill and Cheesman Park neighborhoods. Many of the homes and buildings feature distinct design elements that were common decades ago. Nowadays, some might wonder why certain things were incorporated into the facades of these historic structures.

For example, many of the homes around the neighborhoods noted above and in other areas of downtown Denver, like East Colfax, have stone lion statues that stand proudly by the front door or on the porch. These lions appear in a variety of poses, too.

But what's the significance behind this bold choice of décor?

Many of the mansions around Capitol Hill are designed in a Victorian style. They were primarily settled by Italian families, who appreciated the sophisticated architecture. These early 20th-century homes featured  European-inspired decor, including stained glass windows, gargoyles, and grand columns. Lion statues were a part of this trend.

Statues of lions have been seen around Florence since the Middle Ages, and remain on display in the country today. They originally popped up to symbolize power and prestige. Over time, the animalistic art made its way to American architecture, as seen throughout Denver. According to the Denverite, this design fad represented strength and security, which Colorado homeowners were trying to exude at the time.

The famous Molly Brown House Museum at 1340 Pennsylvania Street is one place where several lion statues can be seen. Two stand on pedestals in front of the main stairs, while another lies sleeping next to the small staircase leading to the south side of the house. Historians say that the sleeping lion was imported from Italy while the other two are believed to have been made from a local statuary shop. Molly Brown was reportedly inspired by her international travels. These ornate stone animals even earned the abode the nickname of "The House of Lions."

Another dwelling on Pearl Street at 10th Avenue has at least seven lions standing guard in the front yard.

Just drive around Denver for a bit and you're sure to see this historic sign of strength. During the Victorian era, before alarm and security systems existed, these fierce feline statues may have actually scared off an intruder.

And it's not just homes that lions were built in front of. For instance, two bronze lions guard the Greek Amphitheater at Denver Civic Center Park. The bronze statues were a gift from Italian immigrants, Alfred P. and Anna E. Adamo.

A beautiful marble lion can be seen in Denver's Five Points neighborhood too.

These iconic relics will forever serve as symbols of strength and courage for as long as they remain standing.