Lambermont - Statue

This fountain in honor of Baron August Lambermont (1819-1905) was unveiled in 1912. “King Albert I and Queen Elisabeth even traveled to Antwerp for it. Lambermont was Minister of Foreign Affairs and later Minister of State. He meant a lot for Antwerp. For instance, he ensured in 1863 that the toll on the Scheldt was purchased out. As a result, Belgium no longer had to pay tolls to the Netherlands for navigating the Scheldt. Thereafter, Antwerp was able to grow exponentially. In less than half a century, the city's area quintupled. The Zuid is a district that was developed at that time. It is therefore logical that Lambermont was honored with a square and a fountain named after him right here.”

Prominently depicted on the Lambermont fountain is Lambermont himself, complete with briefcase. “Other notable elements are a gear, representing industry. The chest represents trade. And the stepping figures symbolize progress.”

The fountain was designed by Léandre Grandmoulin and Frans Van Holder. “They won a design competition that was specifically announced for this purpose. And also interesting to know: apart from one apartment building, all the houses on this Lambermont square are still original.”

GVA - Gazet van Antwerpen