Turysta

Story

Turysta stands proudly at Rynek 14, right in front of the Tourist Information Centre, greeting every visitor who arrives in search of Wroclaw's secrets. With a camera slung around his neck and a map clutched in his little bronze hands, he looks ready to explore every corner of the city. Some say he has personally visited all 800+ dwarfs in Wroclaw and keeps a secret checklist tucked under his pointy hat. If you look closely, you can almost see the excitement in his tiny eyes -- the same thrill every traveller feels when stepping onto the cobblestones of Wroclaw's magnificent Market Square.

History & Significance

Turysta was sculpted by Marcin Luczkowski, one of the key artists who helped expand the Wroclaw dwarf family beyond its original five figurines. He was commissioned by the Centrum Informacji Turystycznej (CIT), the city's main tourist information point located at Rynek 14 on the Market Square. His placement directly outside the CIT entrance makes him one of the most photographed and easily found dwarfs in the city. The Wroclaw dwarf tradition originated from the Orange Alternative anti-communist movement in the 1980s, and Turysta embodies its modern evolution -- transforming the dwarfs from symbols of resistance into beloved ambassadors of the city.

Inspiration

Turysta pays tribute to the millions of tourists who visit Wroclaw each year, drawn by the city's stunning architecture, vibrant culture, and, of course, its famous bronze dwarfs. The Tourist Information Centre at Rynek 14 is the starting point for most visitors exploring the city, offering maps, guides, and souvenirs related to the dwarf trail. The dwarf's name simply means 'Tourist' in Polish, and his accessories -- a camera and a map -- perfectly capture the spirit of adventure that defines a trip to Wroclaw. He stands as a friendly reminder that the best way to discover the city is on foot, with curiosity and a good sense of direction.

Fun Facts

• He stands directly outside the Tourist Information Centre, making him one of the easiest dwarfs to find in Wroclaw.
• A camera around his neck and a map in his hands are his signature props.
• Visitors often rub his hat for good luck before setting off on the dwarf trail.
• The CIT behind him sells official dwarf maps, making Turysta the perfect starting point for a dwarf-hunting adventure.
• His sculptor, Marcin Luczkowski, also created several other well-known Wroclaw dwarfs including Hipoczysciciel at the Zoo.

How to Find This Dwarf

Turysta is impossible to miss -- he stands right outside the Tourist Information Centre at Rynek 14, on the eastern side of the Market Square near the Town Hall. If you are arriving from ul. Swidnicka, walk north through the square towards the Town Hall and look for the CIT signage. He is at pavement level, right beside the entrance.

Nearby Dwarfs

Frequently Asked Questions

Accessibility

Wheelchair AccessibleGround LevelOutdoor

Located on flat pavement directly outside the Tourist Information Centre at Rynek 14. Fully accessible for wheelchairs and pushchairs.