One of the most famous landmarks in the state of Illinois is the pair of giant lion statues standing guard at the front entrance of the Art Institute of Chicago.

Something You Never Noticed About Chicago's Pair Of Giant Lion Statues

When I was growing up, my family and I would go to downtown Chicago quite a bit. We were usually going there for an event, festival, and checking out some of the sights. Sometimes, my mom and I would take the train down and meet my dad after he got off of work. There were no cell phones back in those days, so we had to pick a meeting spot. It was always between the lions at the Art Institute. Even when I got older, I would meet my friends from college there too.

READ MORE: Why Do Some Beaches In Chicago Are Made Of Concrete In Stead Of Sand?

According to Hey Chicago...

The two giant bronze lions guarding the Art Institute of Chicago look like matching twins from far away. But if you walk right up to them, you will discover a hidden secret: they are completely different characters!
Scott Olson, Getty Images
Scott Olson, Getty Images

The lions in front of the Art Institute of Chicago is one of the most iconic sights in the Windy City. Those statues are always included in a highlight package before nationally televised games, in movies, and TV shows. When one of the local teams wins a championship, the lions will be wearing the team's helmet or hat. During Christmas, there's wreaths around their necks.

96.7 The Eagle logo
Get our free mobile app

I have seen those lions hundreds of times in my life in pictures and in person. Many years ago, I even bought my mom little versions of the statues that are still in her living room. After all these years, I learned something about those lions that I never knew before. Both statues are completely different. I always thought they were twins. The artist decided to give each of the animals their own personality. I think that's really cool.

LOOK: Major US city skylines in photos, then and now

Stacker consulted photo archives and the Council on Tall Buildings and Urban Habitat to see how 15 U.S. city skylines evolved in the past century.

Gallery Credit: Stacker

More From 96.7 The Eagle