If you visit the picturesque Princes Street Gardens in Edinburgh, an impressive bronze statue commemorates the extraordinary tale of an unexpected hero—Wojtek the Bear.
Far more than just a mascot, Wojtek served alongside Polish soldiers during World War II, fighting with them at the Battle of Monte Cassino and later spending his final years in Edinburgh Zoo. His journey from an orphaned cub in Iran to a celebrated icon of bravery and camaraderie has left a lasting legacy in both Poland and Scotland. This article explores Wojtek’s extraordinary life, his significance to Edinburgh, and the unique cultural ties he helped forge between Poland and Scotland.
Wojtek’s Origins: From Iran to the Battlefield
Wojtek’s incredible journey began in the mountains of Iran in 1942, when he was discovered as a cub by an Iranian shepherd. The cub was soon sold to a group of Polish soldiers, part of General Anders’ Army, who were making their way across the Middle East after being released from Soviet captivity. The soldiers took the young bear under their care, naming him “Wojtek,” derived from the Slavic name “Wojciech,” meaning “happy warrior.”
Wojtek quickly became more than just a pet—he was a morale booster and a companion to the soldiers of the 22nd Artillery Supply Company. As he grew, he learned to imitate the soldiers’ actions, including saluting and marching on his hind legs. But Wojtek’s most famous moment came during the Battle of Monte Cassino in 1944, where he helped carry heavy crates of artillery shells to the front lines. This impressive feat earned him the rank of corporal in the Polish Army, cementing his place as a true soldier in every sense of the word.
For more about Wojtek’s wartime heroism and the profound connection he formed with Polish soldiers, read the full Wrocław Magazine article here.
Wojtek’s Arrival in Edinburgh: A New Home in Scotland
After the war, Wojtek’s journey took him to Scotland alongside the Polish soldiers who had fought with him. In 1947, when the 22nd Company was demobilized, Wojtek was relocated to Edinburgh Zoo, where he would spend the remaining years of his life. Though far from the battlefield, Wojtek remained a beloved figure among the Polish community and Scottish locals alike. Many of his former comrades visited him at the zoo, speaking to him in Polish and tossing him cigarettes, which he still enjoyed eating—though he had long since given up smoking.
Wojtek’s presence in Edinburgh Zoo became a point of pride for the city, and his story was often featured in newspapers and on television. He was more than just an attraction—he was a symbol of the enduring bond between the Polish soldiers and their Scottish hosts, as well as a reminder of the shared hardships and triumphs of World War II.
For more on Wojtek’s final years and the deep connections he fostered between Scotland and Poland, read the Poznań Magazine article here.
Wojtek Memorial in Princes Street Gardens: A Tribute to Unity
In 2015, over 50 years after Wojtek’s death in 1963, a bronze statue was unveiled in Edinburgh’s Princes Street Gardens to commemorate the bear’s incredible story. The statue, created by Scottish sculptor Alan Beattie Herriot, depicts Wojtek walking alongside a Polish soldier, symbolizing the unity and friendship between the two. Standing at over life-size, the statue is both a tribute to Wojtek’s service and a celebration of the ties forged between Poland and Scotland during the war.
The memorial, set against the stunning backdrop of Edinburgh Castle, is a focal point in the city, attracting both locals and tourists. Visitors often leave flowers and pay their respects to the brave soldiers who fought in World War II—and to the bear who stood by their side.
According to Helena Scott of the Wojtek Memorial Trust, the statue is not just a reminder of Wojtek’s bravery but also a commemoration of the many Poles who settled in Scotland after the war. The unveiling of the statue marked a significant moment in celebrating the enduring bond between the two nations.
Wojtek’s Legacy: A Cultural Icon in Scotland
Wojtek’s story has become a beloved part of Scottish culture, with his tale frequently retold in schools, museums, and cultural events. The statue in Princes Street Gardens has been the subject of much admiration, and it remains one of the most popular landmarks in Edinburgh. TripAdvisor reviews of the statue reflect the deep emotional impact Wojtek’s story has on visitors. As one reviewer, Thomas V., noted: “We found this charming statue while walking around the town. It attracts a lot of attention, so if you want to take a photo, be prepared to wait.”
However, some visitors, like Charlie from Brisbane, Australia, expressed a wish for more legible information at the site, hoping that more people could learn about the depth of Wojtek’s story and his importance to Polish and Scottish history.
Beyond the statue, Wojtek’s legacy is also commemorated through the Wojtek Memorial Trust Tartan, a unique design created to symbolize the shared history of Poland and Scotland. This tartan incorporates the colors of both the Polish and Scottish flags, as well as elements reflecting Wojtek’s story, such as green for the Scottish countryside and sand-colored lines representing the Middle East where Wojtek was found.
Why Wojtek Matters to Edinburgh
The story of Wojtek is more than just a tale of an unusual war hero—it is a powerful symbol of the enduring ties between Poland and Scotland. Wojtek’s presence in Edinburgh Zoo and the memorial in Princes Street Gardens serve as poignant reminders of the contributions Polish soldiers made to the war effort and the home they found in Scotland after the conflict. The statue stands as a testament to the values of friendship, loyalty, and resilience that Wojtek embodied.
The Lord Provost of Edinburgh, Donald Wilson, captured the significance of the memorial during its unveiling, stating: “The story of Edinburgh’s adopted bear is a cherished one… This statue stands for more than that. It makes a statement about fighting for freedom and showing support and comfort to those who are suffering. It celebrates the ties between Edinburgh and Poland and strives to strengthen this bond over time.”
Today, the statue of Wojtek is a must-visit spot for both locals and visitors alike, offering a place to reflect on the courage of those who fought for freedom—and the remarkable bear who walked among them.
For more about Wojtek’s incredible wartime efforts and his legacy in Poland, don’t miss the Wrocław Magazine article and Poznań Magazine article. These articles explore the deep cultural significance of Wojtek’s story and how he continues to be celebrated as a hero in both Poland and Scotland.
Visiting Wojtek’s Statue in Princes Street Gardens
- Location: Princes Street Gardens, Edinburgh, Scotland
- Year of Unveiling: 2015
- Sculptor: Alan Beattie Herriot
- Memorial: Bronze statue of Wojtek and a Polish soldier, alongside a relief depicting key events from Wojtek’s life
Whether you are a history enthusiast, a visitor to Edinburgh, or simply intrigued by the story of a bear who became a soldier, the memorial to Wojtek the Bear is a powerful reminder of the bonds formed in wartime and the enduring spirit of courage and friendship.
For more information on Wojtek’s story and the legacy of Polish soldiers in Edinburgh, maybe next time in the city take a detour through Princes Street Gardens to see this remarkable statue for yourself.
