Čumil (Man at Work)
Bratislava's iconic 'Man at Work' statue, a bronze sewer worker peeking from a manhole, offering a quirky photo op and local charm.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds for photos
Čumil (Man at Work)
Best Time
Fewer crowds for photos

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Bratislava's iconic 'Man at Work' statue, a bronze sewer worker peeking from a manhole, offering a quirky photo op and local charm.
"A unique little statue that attracts attention. It is very unique to Bratislava and you will always find someone posing with it."
📸 Perfect Photo Spot
Always a queue for photos! Pat his head for luck, but watch your step.
👀 Look Down!
Easy to miss if you're not looking down. A delightful surprise on the cobblestone streets.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Cumil (Man at Work)
Old Town, Bratislava
A charming bronze statue of a sewer worker peeking from a manhole, offering a unique photo opportunity.

The Legend of Cumil
Old Town, Bratislava
Locals say touching Cumil's head brings good luck and fertility. A fun story to go with a memorable photo.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Don't Miss This Quirky Icon
Photo Op Alert!
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Perfect Photo Spot
Always a queue for photos! Pat his head for luck, but watch your step.
👀 Look Down!
Easy to miss if you're not looking down. A delightful surprise on the cobblestone streets.
✨ Local Charm
A small but iconic landmark that adds character to Bratislava's Old Town.
Čumil, Bratislava, Slovakia
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Perfect Photo Spot
Always a queue for photos! Pat his head for luck, but watch your step.
👀 Look Down!
Easy to miss if you're not looking down. A delightful surprise on the cobblestone streets.
✨ Local Charm
A small but iconic landmark that adds character to Bratislava's Old Town.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Cumil is a small but incredibly popular and charming statue in Bratislava's Old Town, beloved for its unique design and the local legend of good luck associated with touching its head. While it's a quick stop, it's a definite highlight for many visitors, offering a fun photo opportunity and adding character to the city. Some visitors note it can be a trip hazard and often has crowds for photos.
"A unique little statue that attracts attention. Although it is not a large monument, it is still interesting and you can always see tourists taking pictures of it or having their pictures taken with the statue. I have passed it several times and there were always tourists around the statue. It is perhaps one of the most famous landmarks in the city."
Spase Manev
"Čumil is one of Bratislava’s most famous and quirky statues, showing a man peeking out of a manhole. It’s a fun photo spot and adds charm to the Old Town streets. Locals say he might be “just watching” or “resting from work,” and there are even little legends about him bringing luck if you touch his head. It’s quick to see but definitely worth stopping by for a smile and a memorable picture."
Wiem Mekni
"Beautiful and unique, and somewhat extraordinary, I'd say. A nice story to go with it could enhance the monument—perhaps I missed it.
Bratislava is an interesting place and the center of a virtually "newly born" state.
Undoubtedly, Bratislava has a Hungarian history, followed by a "twinning" with the Czech Republic. Slovaks can be proud of their history and should take the opportunity to showcase their Hungarian and, to some extent, Austrian roots—after all, Bratislava was the capital of Hungary for a long time. During this time, the Habsburgs and the German-speaking population played an important role in Bratislava.
Explanations of the many well-restored buildings and monuments should also be provided in German and Hungarian."
Günther Johann Rozenits
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Cumil is located in Bratislava's Old Town, specifically on the corner of Laurinská and Panská streets. It's easily walkable from most central Old Town attractions. Look down as you wander!
Yes, the Old Town is well-served by public transport. You can take trams or buses to stops near the city center and then enjoy a short walk to find Cumil.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Cumil is a public outdoor statue and is free to view and photograph at any time.
Cumil is an outdoor sculpture, so it's accessible 24/7. The best time to visit for photos might be when there are fewer people around.
📸 📸 Photography
Many visitors pose as if they are being pulled out of the manhole or interacting with Cumil. Be patient as there's often a queue for the prime photo spots.
Try getting down low to capture Cumil peeking out, or stand above to frame him in his manhole. Experiment with different perspectives!
🎫 🌟 Local Legends & Lore
Cumil, meaning 'watcher' or 'peeper,' is one of several quirky statues in Bratislava. Legends say he represents workers taking a break or observing the world.
Yes, local lore suggests that touching Cumil's head can bring good luck and even fertility. Many tourists do it for a photo opportunity.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Encourage your children to look for Cumil as you walk, turning it into a fun game. The legend of touching his head for luck can also be a fun story to share. Just be mindful that it's a popular photo spot, so keeping a close eye on children in the small crowds is advisable.
📸 Photographers & Instagrammers
Consider visiting during the 'golden hour' for softer light, or even early morning to capture the statue with fewer people. The interactive element of touching Cumil's head for luck also provides an opportunity for engaging, candid shots. Don't forget to look for the other quirky statues in the vicinity to create a themed photo series.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Charm of Bratislava's Statues
These statues are strategically placed to surprise and delight, often found at street level or emerging from unexpected places. They encourage exploration and add a playful element to sightseeing. Many visitors find themselves actively searching for these hidden gems, turning a simple stroll through the Old Town into a treasure hunt. The presence of these sculptures contributes significantly to Bratislava's unique atmosphere, making it a destination that feels both historic and vibrantly alive.
Cumil: A Photo Opportunity
Be prepared for a small queue, especially during peak tourist times, as Cumil is a very popular subject for photos. Patience is key to getting that perfect shot. Locals and visitors alike often touch Cumil's head for good luck, so you'll see many people incorporating this gesture into their photos. Remember to look down as you explore the Old Town; you might just stumble upon this delightful surprise!
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit