Where they came from
The dwarf became the emblem of the Orange Alternative — Wrocław's happening movement of the 1980s, which opposed the authorities of the day with absurdity and humour. In 2005 the first permanent casting was put up (Papa Dwarf), and further figures — often funded by companies and institutions — have grown to several hundred scattered across the whole city.
How to see them
- A map or app — plans and apps showing where the figures are
- With children — great fun: hunting for dwarfs turns a walk round the old town into a game
- Themes — the figures refer to trades, places and history (a prisoner dwarf, a fire brigade and so on)
- Where to start — they are thickest around the Market Square, plac Solny and ul. Świdnicka
Combine it with sightseeing
Hunting for dwarfs goes well with seeing the Market Square and walking on to Ostrów Tumski — the route passes most of the main sights, and the children have something to do along the way.
How to get there and practical info
- Location
- All over Wrocław; most of them around the Market Square
- Admission
- Free — the figures are in public space
- Aids
- Paper maps and apps with the locations
- Who it suits
- Ideal for families with children
- Time needed
- From an hour to a whole day of fun
- Tip
- Combine it with the route Market Square → Ostrów Tumski
When to go
Pleasant walks in search of the figures.
The most visitors, but there are enough dwarfs for everyone.
A quiet, atmospheric hunt round the old town.
Some dwarfs get dressed up for Christmas — a winter bonus.
Other sights in Wrocław
Straight-line distances from „The Wrocław dwarfs" — calculated from real coordinates. By road it is often further.
Where to stay nearby
Places from our list that have The Wrocław dwarfs within walking distance or a short drive.
