The Complete Map of All David Cerny Sculptures in Prague
Prague is a city of stunning history and Gothic spires. It is also a playground for provocative modern art. David Cerny is the most famous artist in the Czech Republic. You need a map of all David Cerny sculptures in Prague to find his best works. His installations are often hidden in plain sight or tucked into quiet passages. This guide provides a complete checklist for your next adventure. Explore the city through the eyes of its most rebellious creator.
Essential Checklist for Your Cerny Art Tour
Finding these sculptures requires some planning. Many pieces are spread across different districts. You should start your journey in the city center. This area contains the highest density of famous works. Check the Prague official tourism portal for any temporary maintenance updates. Planning ahead ensures you do not miss the moving parts of the larger installations.
- Offline Map: Download a digital map of all David Cerny sculptures in Prague.
- Transport Pass: Purchase a 24-hour public transport ticket for the Zizkov and Smichov areas.
- Battery Pack: Bring a portable charger for your phone and camera.
- Walking Shoes: Wear comfortable shoes for the cobblestone streets of Old Town.
- Water Bottle: Stay hydrated as you walk between the different art sites.
For a deeper dive into the city's mysteries, consider a David Cerny hidden art tour. These tours often provide historical context for the more controversial pieces. They help you understand the political messages behind the metal and stone. Most sculptures are free to view in public spaces. This makes an art walk one of the best budget activities in the city.
Map of All David Cerny Sculptures in Prague Center
The historic core of Prague holds several iconic Cerny pieces. You can easily walk between these locations in one afternoon. Start at the Quadrio shopping center to see the giant rotating head. This massive bust of Franz Kafka is made of mirror-finish stainless steel. It moves in complex patterns throughout the day. It is a true masterpiece of engineering and art.
Next, head toward Husova street in the Old Town. Here, you will find the famous sculpture of Sigmund Freud. He is seen hanging by one hand from a roof beam. You should also check out our guide on where to find the hanging man sculpture in Prague for exact coordinates. This piece often surprises tourists who forget to look up. It represents the intellectual's struggle in the modern world.
Finally, visit the Lucerna Passage near Wenceslas Square. Inside, you will see an upside-down horse. St. Wenceslas sits on the belly of the dead animal. This is a parody of the famous statue located just outside. It is a bold statement about Czech national identity and history.
Exploring Hidden Passages and Neighborhood Gems
Some of the best pieces are located outside the main tourist paths. You must venture into hidden passages and courtyards in Prague to find them. For example, the Embryo is located on a drainpipe at the Na Zabradli theater. It glows at night and looks like a strange biological growth. It is easy to miss if you are in a hurry.
The Zizkov Television Tower is another essential stop. Ten giant, faceless babies are seen climbing up the tower. These bronze figures are also found at ground level in Kampa Park. Touching the babies in the park is a popular activity for visitors. They offer a great photo opportunity with the river in the background.
- The Piss Sculpture: Located outside the Kafka Museum in Mala Strana.
- MeetFactory: Visit this art center in Smichov to see cars hanging from the walls.
- The Brown-Nosers: Found in the Futura Gallery, though access is sometimes restricted.
- Quo Vadis: A sculpture of a Trabant car on legs located in the German Embassy garden.
Practical Tips for Your Self-Guided Tour
To make the most of your day, follow these simple tips. Timing is everything when viewing kinetic art. The Kafka head usually rotates every hour on the hour. Arrive five minutes early to get a good viewing spot. The Zizkov Tower is best viewed during the day to see the details of the babies. Visit the official national tourism site for more regional travel ideas.
Don't Pack Checklist:
- Heavy Tripods: Most areas are crowded and a tripod will be in the way.
- Large Backpacks: Some passages and galleries have narrow entrances.
- Fancy Clothing: You will be walking a lot; prioritize comfort over style.
- Physical Maps: Digital versions are easier to update with 2026 locations.
Common Mistakes to Avoid:
- Only looking at eye level (you will miss the Hanging Man).
- Visiting the Kafka head during maintenance hours.
- Forgetting that some sculptures are inside private galleries.
- Thinking all sculptures are within walking distance of each other.
- Ignoring the political context of the art pieces.
- Not checking the weather before heading to the Zizkov Tower.
If you are a solo traveler:
- Join a walking group to meet other art enthusiasts.
- Use a selfie stick for photos with the giant installations.
- Keep your belongings secure in crowded passages.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a free map of all David Cerny sculptures in Prague?
Yes, many websites offer free digital maps. You can also find the locations on Google Maps by searching for the specific sculpture names. Most of the art is located in public spaces and does not require a ticket to view.
Which David Cerny sculpture is the most famous?
The Rotating Franz Kafka Head is likely the most famous piece. It is located near the Narodni Trida metro station. Its moving layers attract thousands of visitors every day who want to see the kinetic movement.
Can I see all the sculptures in one day?
Yes, you can see the main sculptures in about 4 to 6 hours. You will need to use the tram or metro to reach the Zizkov Tower and the Smichov district. A self-guided walking tour is the most efficient way.
A tour of David Cerny's art is a unique way to experience Prague. It takes you away from the standard tourist traps. You will discover the city's rebellious spirit and modern creativity. Use your map of all David Cerny sculptures in Prague to navigate the streets. Do not forget to look for other local secrets in Prague along the way. Enjoy the provocative and playful side of the Golden City.
Official resources
Use these sources for official schedules, tickets, routes, and updates.
- Prague.eu — Official city tourism portal; unverified.
- Praha.eu — Official municipal government portal; unverified.
- Visit Czechia — National tourism board; unverified.
- UNESCO World Heritage Centre — Official UNESCO heritage listing; unverified.
- Prague Castle — Official landmark domain; unverified.
