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Little Pearls of History: Exploring the Quirky Statues in Budapest

Updated: Nov 16

Budapest is a city where history and modernity collide in the most exciting ways, becoming a living canvas of grand monuments, architectural wonders, and urban spirit worth exploring. Its streets pulse with artistic energy, from the neo-Gothic marvel of the Parliament to quirky urban installations tucked away in unexpected places. Beneath the grand facades and landmark bridges lies a city that invites discovery — each corner has its own story and often, its own art. The hidden little artworks can capture this spirit perfectly, subtly weaving creative charm and nods to history into the bustling scene of Budapest.


Scattered across the city are mini-statues by the wildly creative sculptor Mihály Kolodko. These miniature bronze sculptures are his way of adding a touch of humor, nostalgia, and unique character to the city’s streets. And the best part? Kolodko doesn’t announce where or when a new one will pop up, turning them into Budapest’s very own urban treasure hunt!


Imagine walking across a bridge, and suddenly, there it is: a mini Emperor Franz Joseph lounging in a hammock. Or spotting a cartoonish little tank representing the 1956 Hungarian Revolution, quietly blending into a riverside wall. 


Kolodko’s pieces are tiny, playful, and packed with meaning, so finding each one feels like you’re unearthing a hidden part of the city. They’re like Budapest’s very own version of a Pokémon hunt, just waiting to be discovered by those who pay attention.


Ready to join the hunt? Then take a break after class, maybe hop on a bike, or go for a refreshing walk and check out these five mini statues, all just a short distance from our campus!


Top 5 Mini Statues Near Corvinus University



Lisa Simpson Statue

The Lisa Simpson statue, unveiled in 2011, is a playful tribute to the iconic character from The Simpsons. The mini-statue captures a humorous scene from an episode where Lisa is tied up like Joan of Arc. While this statue doesn't have a direct connection to Budapest’s history, it adds a fun pop culture twist to the city’s art scene. It’s a fun example of how Budapest embraces both traditional art and contemporary global influences, weaving a quirky touch into the city's rich tapestry.





King Franz Joseph is just vibing in a hammock on Liberty Bridge. The former Emperor of Austria and King of Hungary once oversaw the bridge's construction, so it’s fitting to see him hanging out here. Back in the day, people hung hammocks on the bridge when it was closed to traffic, and now this mini statue gives a nod to that chill moment in Budapest’s history.





Budapest’s metro stations just got a little more forceful thanks to this mini Yoda statue. Situated in the busy Gellért Square metro underpass, this small, wise Jedi sits atop a railing in his iconic meditative pose. It's another fun blend of local art and global pop culture, adding a touch of Star Wars magic to Budapest’s artistic vibe—a playful nod to the city’s embrace of contemporary influences from around the world.





In the heart of the city, this mini sculpture of a young man gliding on rollerblades captures a carefree, modern vibe, blending contemporary culture with the city’s artistic history. It’s a lively depiction of Budapest’s dynamic spirit, offering a fun, energetic touch to its urban landscape.





A charming mini statue of Vuk, the beloved character from the iconic Hungarian animated film, hangs playfully from a tree branch, infusing the city with a sense of nostalgia. This delightful piece captures the heartwarming spirit of Hungarian storytelling, blending childhood memories with the modern energy of Budapest. It offers a lighthearted contrast to the city's grand monuments, serving as a whimsical tribute to the past in the midst of its urban landscape.



Each Kolodko piece is like a little wink to those who find it, reminding us that in a city as rich in history as Budapest, there’s always space for play and curiosity. But don’t stop with just this list — there are many more hidden statues scattered around the city, each offering a unique glimpse into Hungary’s past and a fresh perspective on its culture. So go forth, keep your eyes and Google Maps open, and catch ‘em all!


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