Today we will tell you about one quirky statue in Bratislava, Slovakia. His name is Čumil, the Slovak word actually means “watcher”. It only takes a quick glance at the face of the man at work at the junction of Laurinská and Panská Streets to understand why he goes by the name “the watcher”. The bronze statue, with a grin on his face, peeks his head from underneath a manhole cover in the Old Town and he is popular among tourists and locals alike. You cannot visit Bratislava without saying hi to Čumil! And make sure to take a photo – this is actually one of the most photographed objects in Bratislava.
Čumil: A Bit of History
Čumil is one of many statues in the Old Town of Bratislava. Other statues include Paparazzi, Schöner Náci, and Napoleon’s Soldier. These statues appeared in 1997, a couple of years after Slovak independence. This was at a time when the city was polishing its image after its Communist past. Čumil is the work of Slovak sculptor Viktor Hulík. The artist was born in 1947 in Bratislava.
As for Čumil, there are a couple of theories about his name. Maybe he’s trying to get a look under the ladies’ skirts or perhaps he’s a typical communist-era worker who works little and watches a lot? Or maybe he’s resting after a hard day’s work cleaning the sewer. Either way, this sympathetic man seems to enjoy his surroundings.
There are careless drivers everywhere and Bratislava is no exception! The poor statue actually lost his head twice. Because of this, he was given his own road sign that reminds passers-by of the man at work.
Legend has it that those who touch the head of the man will get a wish come true – if they manage to keep it a secret forever.
Čumil: How to Find Him?
The best way to find this spot is on foot. Amongst the cafés, restaurants, and shops of the Old Town, you will find the statue. It is situated in the front the corner of Rybárska brána (Fishermen’s gate), at the junction of Panská and Laurinská streets. Just follow the crowds and as we already said, bring your camera! There’s often a street band playing in the corner as well.
28 thoughts on “Čumil, Man at Work – Sights in Bratislava”
This is a cute post, and very informative! I can think of some fun poses to do with this statue! It’s interesting that the drivers have hit him so much!
Bratislava is a very underrated place to visit. The old town is a beautiful European area. I did not see this gentleman when I was there, I wish I’d read your post beforehand, I would have went to look for him!
That is a pretty cool sculpture that reminds us of Slovakia’s history. The sculptur had a sense of humour it appears.
Cumil seems to be an interesting person or should I say sculpture? I like how there are different theories about his name. Wonder which one is true. Hopefully he will be still around when I visit.
Such an interesting post 🙂 Bratislava is a magnificent city, I love the Old Town. There are so many things to see! Thank you for Čumil history 🙂
Aw what a cute little quirk to the city! I would probably have not even noticed walking past. Actually on my recent trip to Vienna my driver told me that I need to visit Bratislava! Now it’s on my list
Your article makes me reminisce my time in Bratislava. I have seen this statue, but have no idea who he is or what he stands for. I noticed that there are many interesting statues or monuments within the city and it makes it so remarkable!
How creative of the city (and sculptor) to come up with such an amusing detail! My initial thought was, “they put a sign up for this?” but your explanation makes total sense (crazy drivers there, huh?) In America we seem to favor bronze humans sitting on park benches but I can’t recall anything as whimsical as Cumil.