The ‘Lion of Flanders’ is an enduring symbol of Flemish heritage that originates from the Battle of the Golden Spurs, fought in 1302 near the city of Kortrijk, Belgium. According to legend, after a major victory against the French knights, the Flemish collected about 500 golden spurs, proclaiming, ‘We will now fight with golden spurs.’ From then on, the event became known as the Battle of the Golden Spurs. The story of the Lion of Flanders starts with a brave knight named Robert III of Flanders, also known as Robert the Lion. The knight, nearly 60 years old at the time of the battle, fought fiercely and valiantly, which earned him the nickname ‘The Lion of Flanders’. It is said that his fighting spirit helped inspire the Flemish militia to their surprising victory. This lion, an emblem of courage and strength, became a symbol of Flemish resistance against French domination. The lion has since come to represent the spirit and resilience of the Flemish people. In Flanders fields, there is a statue to commemorate this legendary event – a lion on a high column, looking towards France, defiantly roaring a warning to any who might seek to invade the Flemish lands. The story of the Lion of Flanders is a telling reminder of the region’s storied past, and its symbol holds strong significance for the Flemish people to this day.