Socha Schöne Náci
To some a eccentric, to others an icon of the capital city of Bratislava. That is how Ignáca Lamára can be called. Do not know who is being talked about? Despite a difficult fate, this eternally smiling man in a tailcoat, with a top hat and a cane, became the model for the statue that adorns the streets of Starého Mesta. The legendary statue in the center of Bratislavy respectfully and with a smile greets all passersby.
Schöne Náci, real name Ignác Lamár, greeted passersby in the streets of Bratislavy for more than 40 years. Although a difficult fate befell him in life, his mother left him, and his father, with whom he cared for his sick brother, died early, Schöne Náci never gave up his smile and made his way through life like a true gentleman. A native of Bratislavy, born back in the times of Rakúsko-Uhorska, he was initiated into the shoemaking trade by his father. After his father's death, he made his way through life mainly as a theater stagehand. He frequently visited performances and adopted mimicry and gestures from actors, which gradually became part of him.
His favorite pastime was daily walks through the town. With his appearance, he drew attention, and the unassuming Ignáca became the legend Schöne Náci. The eternal dandy maintained his taste despite advancing fashion trends. Some looked at him strangely, while others shouted at him. Ignác always responded with a kind and friendly smile. He was popular with many and became a part of Starého Mesta. He ended his life journey in the 1960s in the hospital in Lehniciach. His remains were later transported to Bratislavy, and he found his final resting place at Ondrejskom cintoríne next to another legend, the well-known actor and comedian Júliusa Satinského.
The memory of Ignáca is commemorated by a life-sized statue, which is the work of the academic sculptor Juraja Meliša. Walk through the streets of Bratislavy, experience the unique atmosphere, and come also to greet Schöne Náciho near Rybárskej bráne in Starom Meste. During a stroll through the historical part of the capital, you will encounter another icon. The Čumil statue, also known as Man at Work, is a sort of Bratislava curious onlooker peering out of a manhole. You do not have to worry about tripping over him. From afar, you will be alerted by a cluster of tourists who tend to stop at this spot and take a few photographs.
You will also feel a unique atmosphere when visiting the Galérie Michalský dvor. In the former Jesenákovom paláci, you will find exhibitions featuring works by domestic and foreign artists. An indispensable part of social and cultural life, it is a venue for various events. For a tour of famous Bratislava monuments such as the Primaciálny palác, Dóm sv. Martina, or Bratislavský hrad, you will need more than just one day. So choose from our offer and book accommodation near the Sochy Schöne Náci. Whether you decide on a cozy hotel or a modern apartment, trust that spending a few days in Bratislave is definitely worth it.
