Bratislava features notable monuments like Michael’s Gate as well as the Slavín Memorial Complex, both of which celebrate very different aspects of the history of the city. The capital of Slovakia has a rich history that can be seen throughout these monuments but can also be experienced in a variety of sculptures and other landmarks that are spread across the city.
The statue of Čumil, which depicts a man peeping out of the manhole, has become one of the most photographed statues in Bratislava. The bronze piece has become popular enough to be featured in and on tourist items of all types and sizes. Legend has it that those who touch the statues head will get a wish come true – if they manage to keep it a secret forever.
Not far from this monument is the Schöner Náci sculpture, which is actually an iron statue of Ignác Lamár, who became famous due to his habit of walking through the streets of Bratislava, greeting women with the words, “I kiss your hand”. He usually wore an elegant suit and top hat, removing it as people passed by in a respectful greeting that the statue conveys.
Like other famous squares in Europe, Hviezdoslav’s Square features monuments that have been created to honor the city’s greatest people and legends. Pavol Országh Hviezdoslav was one of the most important poets in Slovak history and became the leading representative of Slovak literary realism. A statue of him resides in the middle of the Hviezdoslav’s Square, not far from Ganymede´s Fountain and a sculpture that depicts Hans Christian Andersen.
These are just a few of the obscure and outstanding monuments that are spread across Bratislava. These monuments and plenty others all have unique histories and stories that have helped to serve as attractions for visitors and points of pride for residents in order to create positive economic and cultural impacts for Bratislava and Slovakia as a whole.
