A rather unique attraction in the center of Bratislava is the Duck Fountain, located on the edge of Šafárik Square near the tram stop. It is tucked away in the dense greenery of a small park, creating a quiet corner in an otherwise busy area.
The fountain, which has been a national cultural monument since 1963, can be enjoyed from one of the nearby benches. It enhances the surroundings, although the dense city foliage may make it easy to miss. Most people simply walk past on the adjacent paths. Despite being slightly off the main tourist route, the Duck Fountain is undoubtedly one of the city’s most interesting fountains.
The fountain is very easily accessible by tram, as it is right next to a stop. A cycling path passes nearby, making it a pleasant stop during a bike ride or city commute. It’s also within walking distance from the city center, while visiting by car is generally not recommended.
The fountain was created by Bratislava sculptor Robert Kühmayer in 1914, in a Neo-Baroque style. The artist drew inspiration from a local legend about a water sprite and three boys turned to stone. The main motif features bronze figures of three boys and four ducks in a dynamic scene, as if the boys are trying to catch the ducks. Water sprays from the ducks’ beaks.
The base of the fountain is made of granite and sandstone blocks, evoking the banks of the Danube. The entire work is surrounded by a shallow, arched pool, and the artist’s name and year of creation are visible on the fountain. The area is enclosed by a charming decorative fence.
The legend behind the fountain tells of a Danube water sprite who showed local boys the way to a golden treasure, only to be punished by the guardian of the treasure, an old catfish. To access the treasure, one needed to speak the magical words: “Seksament, otvor sa! (Open Sesame!)”
One boy remembered the words, but before they could be used again, a black toad – guardian of the Danube banks – cursed them. The curse turned anyone who spoke or heard the words to stone. The boy spoke them while tending ducks, turning all three friends and their ducks into stone. This legend was also retold by writer Mária Ďuríčková in her excellent collection Bratislavské Povesti (Bratislava Legends).
Nearby, visitors can relax on Šafárik Square, which has been pleasantly revitalized. A popular nearby attraction is the Blue Church, famous for its unique appearance and visited daily by tourists. For a scenic walk toward the Petržalka side of the Danube, the Old Bridge offers beautiful views of the Old Town and stunning sunsets.