Hipoczyściciel
Zygmunta Wróblewskiego 1-5
Hipoczysciciel, Wrocław's 'Hippo Cleaner' dwarf, lives near the hippopotamus enclosure inside Wrocław Zoo — the only dwarf in the city with his own resident hippos.
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Story
Hipoczysciciel is Wrocław's most aquatic dwarf — stationed at the hippopotamus enclosure inside Wrocław Zoo at ul. Zygmunta Wróblewskiego 1–5. Legend says Hipoczysciciel arrived at the zoo one morning with a mop and a bucket, announcing he had been hired to keep the hippo pool sparkling clean. The hippos took a while to warm to him, but now they will not let him leave. He is rumoured to be the only dwarf who gets wet on purpose.
History & Significance
Hipoczysciciel (literally 'Hippo Cleaner') is located inside Wrocław Zoo, near the hippopotamus enclosure. The zoo at ul. Wróblewskiego 1–5 is Poland's oldest and largest zoological garden. The dwarf's name combines 'hipopotam' (hippo) and 'czyściciel' (cleaner), making him the dedicated janitor of the hippo pool — a role that perfectly suits the zoo setting.
Inspiration
Wrocław Zoo is one of the city's major attractions and has sponsored several dwarfs connected to its animals and staff. Hipoczysciciel is one of these zoo dwarfs, his name and role a delightful pun that makes him instantly memorable. Placing him at the hippo enclosure gives him one of the most dramatic backdrops of any dwarf in the city.
Fun Facts
- His name is a portmanteau of 'hipopotam' (hippo) and 'czyściciel' (cleaner) — a delightfully logical job title for a zoo dwarf.
- Wrocław Zoo at ul. Wróblewskiego is Poland's largest and oldest zoo, founded in 1865.
- To see Hipoczysciciel, you need to buy a zoo ticket — making him one of the few Wrocław dwarfs with an admission price.
- Hipopotamuses can hold their breath for up to 5 minutes underwater — Hipoczysciciel reportedly tries to keep up, with mixed results.
- Wrocław Zoo has bred many hippos over the decades, making it one of Europe's leading hippo conservation facilities.
How to Find This Dwarf
Buy a ticket to Wrocław Zoo at ul. Zygmunta Wróblewskiego 1–5 and head to the hippopotamus enclosure. Hipoczysciciel is located in this area of the zoo. Tram line 1 and several buses stop near the zoo — alight at 'Zoo' stop on ul. Wróblewskiego.
Nearby Dwarfs
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the Hipoczysciciel dwarf in Wrocław?
Hipoczysciciel is located inside Wrocław Zoo (ul. Zygmunta Wróblewskiego 1–5), near the hippopotamus enclosure. A zoo admission ticket is required to see him.
What does the name Hipoczysciciel mean?
It combines 'hipopotam' (hippopotamus) and 'czyściciel' (cleaner), making him the official hippo pool cleaner of Wrocław Zoo.
Is Wrocław Zoo worth visiting for families?
Wrocław Zoo is Poland's largest and oldest zoo, a wonderful destination for families. While you are there, looking for Hipoczysciciel adds a fun dwarf-hunting challenge to the visit.
Accessibility
Wheelchair AccessibleGround LevelOutdoor
Located inside Wrocław Zoo, which has paved paths and is wheelchair accessible. Zoo admission is required.
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