Where to find the David Cerny baby statues in Prague

The David Černý babies, known as "Miminka," are a staple of Prague's art scene. These giant infants have barcodes instead of faces. This design choice often sparks conversations about the dehumanization of society. You will find the first set of three bronze statues in Malá Strana. They sit right outside the Museum Kampa on the riverbank.

The second set of statues is located on the Žižkov Television Tower. There are ten fiberglass babies climbing up and down the structure. These were originally installed in 2000 and became a permanent fixture later. Seeing both sets gives you a full perspective of this provocative art project. Most tourists find the Kampa babies more engaging because you can touch them.

Visiting these statues is one of the top sights in Prague for art lovers. The bronze babies are quite heavy and very sturdy. Children often climb on them, making for fun family photos. The location on Kampa Island is peaceful and offers great views of the Vltava River. It is a perfect spot for a morning walk.

• Checklist:
• Comfortable walking shoes for cobblestones.
• A camera or smartphone with plenty of storage.
• A digital map or offline GPS app.
• Water and snacks for the walk.

How to reach the Kampa Island baby statues

Finding the bronze babies is easy if you follow the right path. They are located in the Malá Strana district on Kampa Island. This area is very walkable and close to the Charles Bridge statues and towers. Follow these steps to reach them quickly and avoid getting lost in the narrow streets.

1. Step 1: Start at the Malá Strana side of the Charles Bridge. Walk down the stairs located near the end of the bridge to enter Kampa Island. Time: 5 minutes. Cost: Free. Location: Charles Bridge stairs. Common Mistake: Walking too far into the city center instead of turning toward the river.
2. Step 2: Walk south through Kampa Park, keeping the Vltava River on your left. You will pass several small cafes and art galleries along the way. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Location: Kampa Park. Common Mistake: Stopping at the first statues you see, which are not the babies.
3. Step 3: Look for the large yellow penguins near the water. The three bronze baby statues are located just past these penguins, next to the Museum Kampa. Time: 2 minutes. Cost: Free. Location: Museum Kampa courtyard. Common Mistake: Missing the museum entrance which leads to the courtyard.

If you prefer public transport, take tram 12, 15, 20, or 22 to the Hellichova stop. From there, it is a short 5-minute walk toward the river. This route is often faster if you are coming from further away. Always check the official Prague tourism portal for any temporary tram diversions or park closures.

Visiting the babies on the Žižkov TV Tower

The Žižkov babies offer a different experience. These statues are much larger and are made of fiberglass. They are attached to the pillars of the tallest building in Prague. To see them, you must travel to the Žižkov district, which is outside the main tourist hub. This area is known for its local vibe and many pubs.

The best way to get there is by taking the Metro Line A (Green Line) to the Jiřího z Poděbrad station. From the station, the tower is clearly visible and only a 10-minute walk away. You can view the babies for free from the park at the base of the tower. For a closer look, you can pay to enter the observatory deck. This provides a bird's-eye view of the statues and the entire city.

Deciding which site to visit depends on your schedule. If you want a quick photo and proximity to other landmarks, choose Kampa. If you want to explore a local neighborhood and see a landmark building, choose Žižkov. Many travelers try to see both to appreciate the scale of the tower installation. Both locations offer a unique glimpse into modern Czech culture.

Troubleshooting and common problems for visitors

While finding the statues is generally simple, some issues can arise. Crowds are the most common problem at Kampa Island. During peak hours, many people wait to take photos with the bronze babies. Arriving early in the morning or later in the evening can help you avoid the rush. This also provides better lighting for your photography.

Navigating the small streets of Malá Strana can be confusing for some. The paths on Kampa Island are not always clearly marked. Using a GPS-enabled map is highly recommended to stay on track. If you get lost, look for signs pointing toward the Museum Kampa. Most locals are friendly and can point you in the right direction if you ask.

• Common Problems:
• Statues being cleaned or temporarily moved for maintenance.
• High crowds making it difficult to get a clear photo.
• Construction work near the Museum Kampa blocking paths.
• Confusion between the bronze babies and the fiberglass ones.
• Slippery cobblestones during rainy or snowy weather.
• Dim lighting at the Kampa site after sunset.

Tips for exploring John Lennon Wall and Kampa

The area around Kampa Island is rich with history and art. After seeing the babies, you should visit the top things to see on Kampa Island. The John Lennon Wall is just a few minutes away on foot. This wall is a symbol of peace and freedom, covered in colorful graffiti and lyrics. It is a must-see for anyone visiting the district.

You can also explore the narrowest street in Prague nearby. It has a traffic light for pedestrians because it is too thin for two people to pass. This area is perfect for a slow afternoon of exploration. There are many small shops selling local crafts and souvenirs. Take your time to enjoy the atmosphere of this historic part of the city.

If you have more time, consider crossing back over the river. You can find more of David Černý's work scattered throughout the city. His "Hanging Man" and "Piss" statues are also very popular. Each piece offers a satirical look at life and politics. Exploring these sites gives you a deeper understanding of the artistic spirit of Prague.