Warsaw is a city that has no shortage of symbols. Chopin, Copernicus, and the historically appreciated statue of General Pilsudski stoically standing guard near Plac Bankowy are just to name a few. They are all appreciated and iconic in their own right. Yet, none seems to grace Warsaw with their presence in such a refined and graceful way as Syrena the Mermaid.
The legend of the mermaid is normally attributed to the sea, however in Warsaw it is another matter entirely. Syrena the fair lady of the capital resides permanently in numerous locations. For example she can easily be recognized on the square and on Swietokrzyski Bridge near the University library. Her permanent stature there wielding sword and shield is a symbol of beauty and guidance. Moreover, in a more transitory context you can see the permeating beauty of Warsaw on busses and trams as you guide your way around the center. She will also be the symbol for the 2012 Euro Football Championship, which will be co-hosted by Poland and the Ukraine.
The legend is that she helped Prince Kazimierz find his way during a hunting expedition by firing burning arrows into the sky. After finding his way, I hope he thanked her. Regardless, the original statue is in a museum, where the model for the statue was actress Krystyna Krahelska.
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