Krasnale wodne
plac Teatralny 4
Seven Krasnale Wodne live in the fountain at pl. Teatralny 4 in front of the Wroclaw Puppet Theatre, each with their own aquatic personality - from the reading Wierzbownik to the boat-launching Puszczajacy Stateczki.
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Story
The Krasnale Wodne (Water Dwarfs) are seven aquatic adventurers who claimed the fountain in front of the Puppet Theatre at pl. Teatralny 4 as their permanent home. They are not originally from Wroclaw - you can tell by their slightly different hats - but in this age of global migration, nobody is surprised anymore. They treat the city as their home and spend their time cheerfully in and around the water, without ever quarrelling. The central figure, Wierzbownik, sits on a tree branch absorbed in a book, while Parasolnik shelters a frog under a crown-shaped umbrella, Zbierajacy Wode gathers droplets, Puszczajacy Stateczki launches toy boats, and Karmacy Ptaki feeds the birds. Aktor and Ogrodnik prefer to stay slightly to the side - they do not enjoy having water pour down their necks.
History & Significance
The fountain and its dwarf inhabitants were created as a city initiative by the Biuro Promocji Miasta (City Promotion Office). The figurines were designed by Wroclaw illustrator and set designer Pawel Pawlak, who gave them their distinctive slightly different hats that distinguish them from other Wroclaw dwarfs. The stories for the dwarfs were written by Wroclaw author Wojciech Widlak. The fountain was officially inaugurated with a ceremony attended by city vice-president Wojciech Adamski, who called it 'a symbol of Wroclaw's long friendship with its dwarfs'.
Inspiration
The Puppet Theatre at pl. Teatralny 4 is one of Wroclaw's most beloved cultural institutions, hosting magical performances for children since its founding. The decision to place a dwarf fountain outside it was a natural one: the Puppet Theatre and the dwarfs share a sense of wonder, play, and storytelling. The fountain became one of Wroclaw's most photographed spots - children love climbing up to see Wierzbownik reading his book and watching Puszczajacy Stateczki send his tiny boat downstream.
Fun Facts
- Their hats are slightly different from all other Wroclaw dwarfs - a deliberate design choice by illustrator Pawel Pawlak to mark them as a distinct group.
- The stories written for the water dwarfs by author Wojciech Widlak gave each one a unique character and backstory.
- Wierzbownik, sitting in the centre of the fountain on a willow branch, is arguably the most well-read dwarf in all of Wroclaw.
- An invisible eighth member named Niewidzialnik is said to also live in the fountain - though by definition he has never been photographed.
- In summer the fountain is a popular cooling spot for families, and children often try to spot all seven dwarfs among the water jets.
How to Find This Dwarf
pl. Teatralny is a short walk from the Market Square - head west past the Basen Teatralny (old swimming baths) on ul. Teatralna, then turn right onto pl. Teatralny. The Puppet Theatre building is the grand neo-Baroque structure, and the fountain with the dwarfs is right in front of the main entrance. The nearby park and play area make this a perfect spot for families with small children.
Nearby Dwarfs
Frequently Asked Questions
Where are the Krasnale Wodne in Wroclaw?
The seven Water Dwarfs are in the fountain at pl. Teatralny 4, in front of the Wroclaw Puppet Theatre. The fountain is a short walk west from the Market Square.
How many water dwarfs are there in the fountain?
There are seven named dwarfs: Wierzbownik, Parasolnik, Zbierajacy Wode, Puszczajacy Stateczki, Karmacy Ptaki, Aktor, and Ogrodnik. A legendary eighth, Niewidzialnik, is invisible.
Who designed the Krasnale Wodne?
The dwarfs were designed by Wroclaw illustrator and set designer Pawel Pawlak. The stories for each dwarf were written by author Wojciech Widlak. The project was initiated by the City Promotion Office.
Accessibility
Wheelchair AccessibleGround LevelOutdoor
The fountain is on a flat, open plaza at pl. Teatralny with smooth pavement surrounding it. Fully accessible for wheelchairs and pushchairs. Note that the fountain basin itself is raised slightly, but all dwarfs are visible from ground level.
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