Freddie Mercury Statue — Montreux, Switzerland

The Freddie Mercury statue on the shores of Lake Geneva in Montreux is one of the most visited music monuments in the world. The 3-metre bronze sculpture, designed by Czech sculptor Irena Sedlecká, depicts Mercury in his trademark pose — right fist raised, left hand gripping a microphone stand — gazing out across the lake. Unveiled on November 25, 1996 (Mercury's 50th birthday, five years after his death), the statue was funded by the remaining members of Queen and Mercury's estate.

Mercury fell in love with Montreux in the 1970s when Queen began recording at Mountain Studios, located in the Montreux Casino complex. He eventually bought an apartment overlooking the lake and spent his final years living and recording in the Swiss town. Queen recorded several albums at Mountain Studios, including 'Jazz,' 'A Kind of Magic,' and their final album with Mercury, 'Made in Heaven.' The town became Mercury's sanctuary — a place of beauty and privacy away from the pressures of fame.

The statue stands in the Place du Marché on the lakefront promenade, freely accessible at all times. It has become the most photographed landmark in Montreux, with fans from around the world visiting to pay tribute. The statue overlooks Lake Geneva with the Swiss Alps as a backdrop. Nearby, the Montreux Casino (rebuilt after the famous 1971 fire that inspired Deep Purple's 'Smoke on the Water') and Mountain Studios are also accessible. The Montreux Jazz Festival takes place each July.