The statue of a tiny anthropomorphic goat stands on an obscure corner of Széll Kálmán tér. It depicts Mekk Elek, a beloved figure from an old Hungarian animated series, an unscrupulous jack-of-all-trades who always botches the job.
It was placed there guerilla-style by Ukrainian sculptor Mihajlo Kolodko, who has also hidden several other small statues in various parts of Budapest. Mekk Elek's location was well-chosen: the character's creator, puppet designer Iván Koós, used to live in a house overlooking the square.
The statue first appeared without fanfare in early June 2018, and was stolen a month later, but replaced with an identical one in a few weeks.
If you'd like to find the statue on your own, don't read on!
If you need help, here's how to find him: walk around the Széll Kálmán tér metro station building until you see a short underpass for trams. To the left of it, there's a bike lane. Follow the bike lane away from the underpass until you get to a pedestrian crossing and a flight of stairs leading up. Mekk Elek is standing at the bottom end of the stairs' handrail.
Széll Kálmán tér
HUF
free
Find your way with 171 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
Artificial "Lake Naplás" in Budapest is an unexpected delight where few downtowners or tourists ever venture. It's perfect for interesting nature treks...
by
"Massolit Books & Café" is a coffee shop in an English bookstore. I wrote my 1st novel here, several short stories... I'd miss it the most were I to leave.
by
The concept of Könyv Szekér in Budapest is to save books from being thrown out or destroyed — they are little mobile bookstores on old-school carriages!
by
Auróra in Budapest is a place to create, attend workshops, concerts, parties, rituals... It's a big survivor in the district and it keeps fighting!
by
Szabad Bisztró in Budapest has delicious vegan dishes and local drinks, but it's also associated with local initiatives, as with the terrace out front!
by
Szabó Ervin Library in Budapest has been my shelter many a time. The 100-year-old chairs & sofas create a unique atmosphere for studying or relaxing...
by
At Ignác, the well-thought touches thoroughly selected, often local products co-live nicely with each other, creating a welcoming, charming little space.
by
This small business is owned by a Dutch couple, and they happily offer their traditional toasts and specialities.
by
My go-to is the Diavola pizza (spicy Italian salami), which is baked to perfection, and let’s not forget about the four cheese pasta - a true masterpiece.
by
171 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
✓ 0 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
✓ 171 Insider Tips