Gryfosław
Świdnicka 13
Gryfosław stands at the underground passage on ul. Swidnicka and commemorates the 2022 Dolnoslaski Gryf award given to all of Lower Silesia for its humanitarian support of Ukrainian refugees.
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Story
Gryfosław is a dwarf with a heart as big as a griffin's wings — and wings, after all, are right there in his name. Stationed at the underground passage on ul. Swidnicka, he stands as a permanent reminder that in 2022, when war came to Ukraine, the people of Lower Silesia opened their arms, homes, and businesses without a moment's hesitation.
History & Significance
Gryfosław was unveiled in June 2023 to commemorate the Dolnoslaski Gryf (Lower Silesian Griffin) Economic Award presented in October 2022. The jury decided to award that year's prize to the entire community of Lower Silesia — its residents, businesses, foundations and local authorities — in recognition of their extraordinary humanitarian response to the war in Ukraine.
Inspiration
The Lower Silesian Griffin (Gryf) is the heraldic symbol of the region. Gryfosław takes his name from this proud symbol, blending it with 'slaw' (glory) — a name that means 'Glory of the Griffin.' His creation was driven by the Zachodnia Izba Gospodarcza (Western Chamber of Commerce) and marks one of the most moving collective achievements in the region's recent history.
Fun Facts
- Gryfosław is one of the few Wroclaw dwarfs named after a regional heraldic symbol — the griffin (gryf).
- He was unveiled at a ceremony attended by the former Ukrainian Ambassador to Poland, Andrij Deszczytsia.
- The award he commemorates was given not to one person or company, but to an entire region of over 2.9 million people.
- His location on ul. Swidnicka places him steps away from Papa Krasnal — the very first Wroclaw dwarf.
- The griffin features prominently on the coat of arms of Lower Silesia, making Gryfoslaw a mini-ambassador for the whole voivodeship.
How to Find This Dwarf
Head to ul. Swidnicka near the underground passage at the intersection with ul. Kazimierza Wielkiego. Gryfoslaw is near the steps of the underpass — the same stretch where Papa Krasnal, the very first Wroclaw dwarf, also stands. Tram stops on ul. Swidnicka are metres away.
Nearby Dwarfs
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the Gryfoslaw dwarf in Wroclaw?
Gryfoslaw stands near the underground passage on ul. Swidnicka, close to the famous Papa Krasnal.
What does Gryfoslaw commemorate?
He commemorates the Dolnoslaski Gryf Economic Award of 2022, given to the entire community of Lower Silesia for its exceptional humanitarian support of Ukrainian refugees fleeing the war.
When was Gryfoslaw unveiled?
Gryfoslaw was unveiled in June 2023 at a ceremony with regional and diplomatic representatives.
Accessibility
Wheelchair AccessibleGround LevelOutdoor
Street-level pavement on ul. Swidnicka. The underpass entrance has steps, but the dwarf is at surface level and accessible to all.
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