Unfamiliar Sculptures of Wroclaw: 7 Hidden Treasures

Unfamiliar Sculptures of Wroclaw: 7 Hidden Treasures

June 11, 2025

Broclaw, known for its colorful townhouses, picturesque bridges and charming dwarves, hides many more artistic treasures than it might seem at first glance. This is a city where public art intertwines with everyday life, creating a unique atmosphere. On this artistic journey, we will take you to seven lesser-known, but equally fascinating sculptures that are the true hidden treasures of Wroclaw. Each of them has its own unique history, form and message waiting to be discovered by inquisitive travelers and art lovers. Get ready for an extraordinary tour of the city's nooks and crannies, where art meets history, creating an unforgettable experience for the whole family.

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Sculptures, that surprise and intrigue

Let's begin our journey with one of Wroclaw's most intriguing art installations - the 'Monument to an Anonymous Passerby'. Located at the intersection of Pilsudski and Świdnicka Streets, it is easily accessible on foot from the city center or by streetcar (lines 3, 5, 6, 7, 10, 23). This unusual monument, consisting of 14 bronze figures, was unveiled in 2005 and has fascinated locals and tourists alike ever since. The figures 'emerging' from the sidewalk and 'going' underground symbolize Poland's transformation after 1989. It's the perfect place for a family game of 'find the differences' between the figures or create your own story about each figure. The monument is accessible 24/7, with no age restrictions or admission tickets.

Nearby, at Powstańców Warszawy Square, is another fascinating sculpture - 'Waiting'. This work, created in 1979 by Anna Malicka-Zamorska and Ryszard Zamorski, depicts a woman sitting in an armchair, blindfolded, next to an empty chair. The sculpture is an excellent starting point for conversations with children about emotions and anticipation. It is available all year round, with no time or age restrictions. To get to 'Waiting', you can take the streetcar (lines 2, 3, 5, 10) getting off at the 'Galeria Dominikanska' stop.

The third point on our route is the 'Nave Sculpture', located on Dali Island. This modern, silvery structure by Oskar Zięta was installed in 2017 and quickly became one of the most photographed objects in Wroclaw. The easiest way to get here is on foot from Ostrów Tumski or via the Sand Bridge. 'Nave' is especially impressive at sunset, when it reflects the last rays of the day. It's a great place for a family picnic or a lesson on modern art and architecture. The sculpture is open 24 hours a day, with no age restrictions.

Each sculpture offers a unique experience and is a great starting point for conversations about art, history and modernity. When planning a tour, it's a good idea to bring comfortable shoes, water and snacks, especially if you're traveling with children. Near each of the sculptures there are cafes and restaurants where you can relax and get energized for further sightseeing. Remember to respect these works of art - don't climb on them or touch them unnecessarily. Instead, encourage children to observe, discuss and create their own interpretations of what they see.

Sculptures with soul and history

Continuing our artistic journey through Wroclaw, we can't leave out the remarkable 'Monument in Honor of Slaughtered Animals'. Located on Jatki Street in the heart of the Old Town, it is easily accessible on foot from the Market Square (about a 5-minute walk). This unique monument, consisting of a group of bronze figures of farm animals, was unveiled in 1997 as a tribute to the animals that for centuries ended up on the tables of the city's residents. The sculptures of a duck, pig, goat, rabbit and other animals are not only beautiful, but also educational - a great opportunity to talk to children about the history of the place, ethics and respect for animals. The monument is accessible 24 hours a day, without any restrictions. There are many cafes and restaurants in the area, where you can relax after sightseeing.

The next point on our tour is the 'Cupid on Pegasus' - sculpture located in Old Town Park, near the National Museum. This more than 100-year-old bronze composition depicts the mythological Cupid riding a winged horse. It's the perfect place for a family picnic combined with a lesson in mythology. The sculpture can be reached by streetcar (lines 2, 3, 5, 10), getting off at the 'Galeria Dominikańska' stop. The park is open all year round, and admission is free. It is advisable to bring a blanket and snacks with you to fully enjoy the atmosphere of the place.

Next, let's move on to the University Bridge, where there is an intriguing sculpture called 'Flooded'. This work of art, unveiled in 2004, commemorates the 1997 flood of the millennium that hit Wroclaw. The sculpture depicts the figure of a woman standing on a bridge railing, symbolizing the courage and determination of the city's residents in the face of the disaster. This is an excellent opportunity to tell children about the city's history and the strength of the community in difficult times. The University Bridge is easily accessible on foot from the city center or by streetcar (lines 9, 17). The sculpture is visible around the clock, and the bridge offers beautiful views of the Oder River and the city skyline.

The last point on our route is 'The Horse' by Zbigniew Frąckiewicz, located at 18 Szewska St. This modern interpretation of a horse, made of cast iron, is an interesting contrast to the historic buildings of the area. The sculpture is easily accessible on foot from the Market Square (about a 5-minute walk). It's a great place to talk with children about contemporary art and its dialogue with tradition.

When planning a trip along the trail of these sculptures, keep in mind some practical tips. It's a good idea to bring a map of the city or use a mobile app with tourist routes. For children, a notebook and crayons will come in handy so they can sketch the sculptures or record their impressions. Also remember a camera - each of the sculptures is a great subject for a family photo shoot. There are public restrooms near each location, as well as refreshment facilities where you can eat or relax.

It's also worth noting the cultural events held near these sculptures - there are often outdoor concerts, art workshops or family picnics that can enrich your experience. Let's check the city's calendar of events beforehand so we don't miss any attractions.

Practical tips for explorers of the city's art

Finishing our tour of Wroclaw's hidden treasures, it's worth summarizing some practical tips to fully enjoy discovering the city's art.

First, when planning your tour route, consider the distances between each sculpture. Although they are all located in the city center or its immediate vicinity, it is worth spreading the tour over two or three days, especially if you are traveling with children. This will allow you to quietly savor each work of art without rushing.

When it comes to transportation, Wroclaw offers many options. In addition to walking, which is the best way to explore the city's nooks and crannies, consider buying a day ticket for public transportation. Streetcars and buses run regularly and allow you to move quickly between distant points along the route. For families with children, renting city bicycles can also be an interesting alternative - Wroclaw has an extensive network of bicycle paths, and riding a bicycle can be an additional attraction for the youngest.

Remember that the weather in Wroclaw can be capricious. Even in summer, it's a good idea to bring a light rain jacket and comfortable, waterproof shoes. On warmer days, don't forget your headgear and UV sunscreen - some of the sculptures are located in open, sunny areas.

For those interested in learning more about the history and context of the sites visited, we recommend using a local guide. Many tour agencies offer thematic tours of Wroclaw, including routes focused on public art. This is a great opportunity to learn more about the artists, the process of creating the sculptures and their significance to the city.

Also worth noting are the cultural events held near the sculptures described. Especially during the summer season, many of these places become the stage for concerts, outdoor exhibitions or art workshops. Information on current events can be found on the city's website or at tourist information centers.

For families with children, we recommend creating your own city game related to the sculptures you visit. It can be a simple quiz, tasks to find specific elements of the sculptures, or even small drawing contests inspired by the works on view. This is a great way to keep the little ones interested while encouraging them to carefully observe their surroundings.

Let's remember that public art is an integral part of the city and should be respected. Let's teach children that while sculptures often encourage interaction, they should not be stepped on or touched unnecessarily. Instead, let's encourage careful observation, discussion and the creation of their own interpretations.

Finally, let's not forget to document our journey. Photos at the sculptures can become a wonderful family heirloom, and perhaps even inspire your own scrapbook or travel blog.

Discovering the hidden treasures of Wroclaw is not only a lesson in art and history, but above all a great adventure for the whole family. Each of the described sculptures tells its own unique story, encouraging reflection and discussion. Whether you are an art lover or simply looking for unusual attractions, these seven hidden treasures of Wroclaw are sure to provide you with unforgettable experiences and memories.

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