The Lion's Head

The lion's head along Kennon Road is the undisputed landmark that is synonymous to Baguio City. It is commonly said that a trip to Baguio City would not be complete without taking home a souvenir photograph with the famous lion head which serves as the backdrop on Kennon Road.

Local and foreign tourists make it a point to stop in Camp 6 and have their photographs taken at the base of the lion head. The 40-foot high lion head, located a few kilometers from the Kennon Road view deck, was carved by a Cordillera artist from a limestone boulder. Lions Club members of Baguio City thought of creating a symbol that would proclaim the presence of the group in this mountain resort city.

Just beside the lion head are a few small stalls that sell woodcarving and other native handicraft. Softdrinks and light snacks are also sold to visitors who take time to stop and take a break after the 45-minute drive up Kennon Road. The vendors have enjoyed high sales since this popular landmark was constructed.

It was during the term of Baguio Mayor Luis Lardizabal, who was also Lions Club governor in 1969 to 1970, when the club conceptualized the creation of the lion head. Actual work started in 1971 and took a year before this now-famous landmark of Baguio was unveiled to the public by Lions Club International in 1972. The club tapped donations from Lion members and businessmen in the city and pooled proceeds from a state convention to fund the construction of the lion head.