Gasiorek

Story

Gasiorek is Wroclaw's bravest little firefighter, standing guard outside the Regional Fire Service Headquarters at ul. Borowska 138 since 4 May 2008. Helmet on head, hose at the ready, he watches over the comings and goings of real fire engines and real firefighters with an expression of serious professional pride. Other krasnal residents sleep a little more soundly knowing Gasiorek is on permanent watch — even if his hose is strictly bronze.

History & Significance

Sculpted by Tomasz Moczek, one of the original creators of the Wroclaw krasnal tradition, Gasiorek was installed on 4 May 2008 at the Komenda Wojewodzka Panstwowej Strazy Pozarnej (Regional Headquarters of the State Fire Service) at ul. Borowska 138. The date was carefully chosen: 4 May is International Firefighters' Day. He stands in front of one of Wroclaw's busiest fire service buildings, shared with the Rescue and Fire-Fighting Unit No. 9.

Inspiration

Firefighters consistently rank among the most trusted public servants in surveys across Poland and the world. Gasiorek celebrates that trust and the dedication of the Lower Silesian fire service. Tomasz Moczek's craft gives this small figure the dignity of a profession that saves lives daily, while the playful krasnal form reminds passers-by that courage can come in small packages.

Fun Facts

• Gasiorek was installed on 4 May 2008, which is International Firefighters' Day — a deliberate and touching tribute to the profession.
• He was sculpted by Tomasz Moczek, the artist behind the very first Wroclaw dwarfs installed in August 2005.
• The building he guards is also home to Fire-Fighting Rescue Unit No. 9, making him one of the few dwarfs with active fire engines as neighbours.
• According to local tradition, patting Gasiorek's helmet before a camping trip will keep your fire safely contained.
• His location on ul. Borowska puts him near other medical-district dwarfs, making him a natural stop on the southern Krzyki dwarf trail.

How to Find This Dwarf

Ul. Borowska 138 is in the Krzyki district, about 4km south of the city centre. Take tram line 1, 7 or 9 to 'Borowska' and walk a short distance south. The Regional Fire Service building is large and easy to spot; Gasiorek stands near its entrance. Look for the red fire engines parked nearby.

Nearby Dwarfs

Frequently Asked Questions

Accessibility

Wheelchair AccessibleGround LevelOutdoor

Located on a flat, spacious pavement in front of the fire service headquarters. The approach is fully accessible for wheelchairs and pushchairs.