This lion is one of the original ones that adorned the center street bridge leading into downtown Calgary. They were first installed in 1917, after completion of the bridge; 2 would face north and 2 would face south on the bridge. In 1999, the bridge closed for major renovations, and the original 4 were removed and restored. Molds were then made so that new lions could now adorn the bridge. The originals were deemed to be a historic work.
This particular one is right out front of city hall; it was only restored to ensure its structural integrity, but otherwise the wear and tear is kept to show its age. Two more of the originals are in storage to preserve their condition, and the fourth overlooks the city on top of a hill facing towards the bridge and downtown Calgary.
