Meeting Cumil the Sewer Worker statue in Bratislava.
I was heading to the Christmas Markets in Bratislava in the main square, when all of a sudden, I noticed a quirky little fella peeking out of the ground.
Meet Cumil, the sewer worker… One of Bratislava’s famous treasures!
The bronze statue draws in tourists from around the Slovakian capital, wanting to take a snap of the iconic statue.
Just across the road from him lies another cool statue also!
Keep reading to find out the story behind Cumil and his friend, ‘the man with the hat’.
The famous ‘Cumil sewer worker’ statue in Bratislava Old Town.
Why is the Cumil statue in Bratislava?
When I was on a walking tour of Bratislava, our tour guide, ‘Nicholas’, explained the reason behind why Cumil is in the Old Town.
He told us that the statue, (pronounced "choomil"), doesn't have a specific story behind it.
It was created by Slovak artist Viktor Hulík in 1997 as part of a project meant to revitalise the Old Town area of Bratislava following the city's liberation from communist rule.
Čumil's whimsical depiction of a sewer worker peeking out from a manhole has become a popular tourist attraction in Bratislava, with many humorous interpretations and stories emerging around the statue. However, there's no official backstory or specific reason for Čumil's pose or presence.
His ambiguous nature is part of his charm and allows visitors to create their own narratives about the statue.
Although Cumil doesn’t have the same historical story behind it as some of the other popular statues in the city, he still draws in many tourists!
I always enjoy using my imagination in destinations by making my own story up!
How can you visit the Cumil statue in Bratislava?
Cumil is located right next to the main square in the Old Town, on the crossroads of the streets Rybárska Brána and Panská Ulica.
You can’t miss the statue, as there is usually a queue of tourists taking a photo with Cumil.
Apparently in recent history, there have been some accidents causing damage to Cumil, so there is now a big bold red sign next to him saying ‘man at work’.
This will protect the little bronze guy!
Some other famous statues to visit in Bratislava.
Modern Bratislava is trying to move away from its iron curtain days, which can be seen through the quirky statues and colourful street art popping up throughout the city.
Here are another two of my favourite statues in the Slovakian capital:
Svätopluk Statue at Bratislava Castle.
When you visit Bratislava Castle, you will find a bronze statue of ‘Svätopluk’ riding a horse.
Svätopluk I of Moravia was considered one of the greatest kings of the Great Moravian Empire, so it is fitting that his statue stands in prime position in front of one of the most iconic castles.
The historical monument was built in dedication for the wars the great king won back in the 9th century, which can be seen through the statue depiction of him riding his rearing horse with a sword held in his right hand, in a battle pose.
You can’t miss the statue when you arrive at the castle, as it is right outside the front entrance.
Svätopluk Statue at Bratislava Castle.
Schone Naci Statue.
Just across from Cumil, stands another quirky statue.
Schoner Naci, also known as the ‘man with the hat’.
During my walking tour of Bratislava, I was told the story behind the famous statue.
The sculptor ‘Juraj Melis’ created the statue in 1997, based on a gentleman who would stand on the corner of the Main Square greeting passing women with compliments and a smile on his face. Usually tipping his hat to them, as the statue does.
It is said that his positive vibes would attract people to the restaurant he stood outside, along with intrigued women who would want a compliment.
Apparently Schoner would get free food from the local cafes and restaurants.
As I was passing, there were tourists grabbing a photograph underneath his hat, as it makes for a fun picture.
I felt the community vibes in the eateries around the main square, so you should add one of the popular restaurants to your Bratislava itinerary to experience it for yourself.
Schone Naci Statue on the corner of the main square.
Some more fun things to see in Bratislava.
Another quirky landmark I stumbled across on my European city break was the Blue Church of Bratislava.
The colourful building stands out amongst a dull street, and visitors can enter inside when there isn’t an ongoing church service.
I snapped some awesome shots of the iconic structure.
It is located around a ten minute walk from the main square in the Old Town.
Where to stay in Bratislava.
Bratislava is a small city which is walkable, therefore, you are never too far away from one of its highlights. However, I recommend that you stay close to the Main Square, as that is where I found the best restaurants and cafes.
These are the options you should strongly consider for a great trip:
My favourite hotel in Bratislava, as its location is a stone’s throw from the main square, meaning you can easily walk to any of the city’s landmarks. It also offers spacious comfortable rooms.
A five star option situated opposite the National Theatre. The worldwide brand needs no introducing. What you see is what you get!
Falkensteiner Hotel Bratislava.
A popular option for tourists due to its stylish decor and central location, close to coffee shops and restaurants.
Skaritz is right next to the main square.
Sheraton is highly rated.
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