Yes! There’s really a fire-breathing dragon in Krakow!
The fire-breathing dragon of Krakow isn’t just a legend, it’s a real statue you can visit! And yes, it really does breathe fire. Awhile back you had to text the dragon in order for it to roar its flaming breath- but now just hang out for about 10 minutes, and you’ll see it breathe fire at least once!
The six-meter tall statue is a major landmark of Krakow, and visited by most tourists, with a few ways to get to it! Some view it from above as they look out onto the Vistula River from the edge of Wawel Castle.
Others, will enter the Dragon’s Den during the summer season to walk through the 12-million year old caves and exit out right behind the Dragon. But most will include a stop at the famous dragon statue as they walk along the Vistula River Boulevards. However you get there, don’t give up if you don’t see fire. Sometimes, depending on the weather, it can take extra time for it to go off. So be patient, wait in line to take your picture, and you just might be one of the lucky ones that snaps a photo just as the dragon breathes!
The massive bronze sculpture, titled “Smok Wawelski” or “Wawel Dragon” was created in 1969, but officially unveiled and placed just below Wawel Castle on the Vistula River Boulevards in 1972. The author of the piece is famed Polish artist Bronisław Chromy.
There are many versions of the legend of the Krakow Dragon, and we of course invite you on our free walking tour of the Old Town and Castle to hear it! But long story short, there was once a dragon wreaking havoc on the city of Krakow. So the king made a call out to the world- anyone that could defeat the dragon could have his daughter’s hand in marriage. People came from all over the world to try to kill the dragon- but none were successful. Until, finally, one day a humble shoemaker appeared and used his brains instead of weapons to defeat the problem! But we don’t want to give too much away and ruin the story for you- just join us any day in front of St. Mary’s Church to go on a tour and eventually hear the whole legend!
@krakowexplorers 5️⃣0️⃣0️⃣➕ Things to do in Krakow (2/500): Visit the fire breathing dragon below Wawel Castle! In Polish Smok Wawelski, was unveiled in 1972 and really is capable of breathing fire! The artist Bronisław Chromy sculpted the dragon in 1969- but it wasnt put at its current location until a few years later. You can see it from above at the edge of Wawel Caslte; visit it as you exit the Dragon’s Den; or stumble across it as you stroll along the Wisła Riverbanks. If you’re really lucky- it will breathe fire when you’re taking your photo! #krakow #thingstodoinkrakow #travel #CapCut
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