Napoleon's Army Soldier Statue, Bratislava

The city of Bratislava is filled with unique bronze statues which pop out from the public areas to surprise the masses. Tourists on holiday to the city will want to plan some relaxing time exploring the metropolis and seeking out these fabulous little surprises. The statue of Napoleon’s Army Soldier is located on the main square leaning over a park bench. Visitors enjoy spending time having their pictures taken with the statue. In fact, this is one of the most popular photographic moments in Bratislava. The sculptor, Juraj Meliš, created a figure to commemorate the two occasions when Napoleon’s army entered the city during the 1800s.

The statue earned its name because of its pose. His crossed arms and French Napoleonic hat are reminiscent of Napoleon himself. Some of the other figures, which can be found around the city, are Cumil, Paparazzi and Schone Naci. These whimsical bronze statues are a result of a collaboration among local sculptors who were asked by the town government to add features which would help the city move away from its once austere and communistic appearance. After the first couple statues were installed, more followed, due to their popularity with the locals and tourists.