Cumil
A gazer in a manhole
About
A small bronze sculpture of an ordinary man happily observing daily life on Korzo, Bratislava’s promenade zone, was created by Viktor Hulik and installed in 1997. Alongside the statues of Schone Naci and the Napoleonic Soldier located in the Main Square, Cumil (the Gazer) is one of the most photographed tourist attractions in Bratislava.
To set the record straight, Cumil does not represent a water company worker or a soldier, the cap is not a helmet, and there is no evidence that touching the statue will bring you happiness.
Gallery
Logistics
- Čumil, Bratislava
- Non-stop
- Free of charge
- Easy to spot by looking for the crowds.
Tips
From the Old Town
Pickpocketing
Nearby restaurants
While Hviezdoslav Square offers a variety of fast food and fine dining options, Panská Street to the west of Cumil boasts popular choices like Gatto Matto restaurant, La Putika bistro, and Cork wine bar. To the east on Laurinska Street, you’ll find Soho and Urban House bistros, or the unique Orbis French fries. For a sweet bonus, Mondieu café has locations in both directions.
Things to do nearby
Cumil is perfectly situated between two major tourist hubs, the Main Square and Hviezdoslav Square, each with its own array of attractions. From this spot, you can easily explore key Old Town landmarks, such as the Old Town Hall and the Old Theatre. Alternatively, take Laurinska Street to discover the captivating Nedbalka Gallery, showcasing the finest modern Slovak paintings, or head down Panska Street to reach the iconic St. Martin’s Cathedral.
The Main Square, the beating heart of the Old Town, is a key crossroads and a picturesque spot begging to be photographed. Dominated by the tower of the Old Town Hall, the square is surrounded by charming cafés, bars, and restaurants. It also transforms into the site of a traditional Christmas market during the Advent season. The square’s history dates back to 1373, when it was first mentioned in writing as Forum (the market). At its center stands the Renaissance-style Maximilian Fountain, also known as the Roland Fountain, built in 1572 on the site of an old well. The fountain was commissioned by and named after Holy Roman Emperor Maximilian II, who was crowned King of Hungary in St. Martin’s Cathedral.
A sprawling promenade shaded by old trees and lined with numerous bars and restaurants, Hviezdoslav Square is one of Bratislava’s must-see attractions. Beautiful palaces on both sides recall the era when this area was home to wealthy nobility. Notable landmarks include the historic Slovak National Theatre building and the Carlton Hotel, which once hosted prominent figures such as Maria Theresa, Jules Verne, Albert Einstein, Alfred Nobel, Franklin D. Roosevelt, Thomas Edison, and Franz Liszt. The square features several fountains, a grand statue of one of Slovakia’s most significant poets, Pavol Orszagh Hviezdoslav, and various smaller statues. It culminates at Rybne Square with its 1713 Plague Column.
For centuries, the St. Martin’s Cathedral was playing a key religious and political role in Central Europe, as the coronation church of kings and queens of the Hungarian Kingdom, including famous Maria Theresa. The construction of this beautiful Gothic building was initiated in 1311 A.D. and finalized two centuries later. The 85-meter-high tower houses houses six bells, including a 2.5-ton Wederin, dating back to 1674, as well as a 150-kilogram golden-plated model of the Hungarian royal crown.
A small private gallery showcasing the works of Slovakia’s finest painters and sculptors from the late 19th century to the present day. Situated on Nedbalova Street, between the Primate’s Palace and the Old Market Hall, it offers the perfect opportunity to slow down and appreciate modern art. The experience is further enhanced by the building itself—a stunning cultural monument with four levels of galleries encircling a central open space.
