Bratislava is famous for its many interesting and unusual statues. One of the most popular is the bronze monument to the plumber, located in the pedestrian tourist area on Panská Street in the historic city center.
You won't have any trouble finding this man peeking out of a manhole. The plumber's helmet is polished by tourists and shines like a piece of jewelry: according to legend, it brings good luck and fulfills cherished desires.
In English, the monument is usually called "Men at Work". There is even a special sign over it. However, the Slovaks themselves call it "Čumil", which means "onlooker" or "observer".
Citizens believe that this good-natured plumber with a smile on his face not only rests after work but also upskirts passing ladies. His serene and happy face makes you believe that he is friendly. The statue draws attention and cheers up: the merry plumber curiously "keep an eye on" the vibes of the city center and the crowds of tourists.
Others claim that the statue recalls the hard times of the Second World War when civilians of the city had to hide from bombing in sewer manholes.
The statue was created by the Slovak artist and sculptor Viktor Hulik and installed in the capital in 1997, during a major reconstruction of the historic center.
According to unofficial data, it is the most photographed of the 143 statues of the city. It appears on all souvenir products and is very popular among not only ordinary tourists but also celebrities. For example, British Prince Charles, Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi, and former Czech President Vaclav Havel were photographed next to the statue at various times. The popular attraction has even been compared to the famous Manneken Pis in Brussels.
The historic center of Bratislava is quite small, so its circuit is less than an hour walking. Not far from Men at Work, there is the main city square and the Old Town Hall, as well as Hviezdoslav Square, St. Martin's Cathedral, and the Palace of Zichy.