Gacek, the cat who charmed Poland: from Google Maps star to Szczecin’s ecological symbol
SZCZECIN, Poland — What began as a small local curiosity has turned into a global sensation. Gacek, a black-and-white stray cat, has captured the hearts of Poles and international visitors alike — becoming one of Szczecin’s most beloved figures and even an unexpected ecological icon.
For years, Gacek lived in a wooden box on Kaszubska Street, where locals and tourists pampered him daily with treats and affection. Visitors from across the world came to see him, take photos, and leave glowing five-star reviews on Google Maps. Before long, Gacek was hailed as “the most famous cat in Poland,” surpassing even the city’s Philharmonic Hall and the Pomeranian Dukes’ Castle in popularity.
“I feel lucky to have met this gentle and noble creature,” one tourist wrote. Another visitor from Norway added humorously, “He completely ignored me — and that made the experience perfect.”
From local celebrity to protected cat
Gacek’s fame, however, came with a downside. Overfed by well-meaning admirers, the cat began to suffer from obesity and related health issues. In autumn 2023, authorities relocated him to an animal shelter run by the Society for the Protection of Animals, where he received medical care and a strict diet.
His former “residence” on Kaszubska Street has since been transformed into a cat café managed by a foundation promoting animal welfare education and volunteerism — a tribute to the furry legend who once lived there.
An ecological symbol takes shape
Gacek’s story has since inspired an eco-friendly mural in his honor. Painted on a building at Rugińska 34–35, the artwork was created by artist Bartosz Podlewski as part of the Pomorze Zachodnie program, which blends urban art with environmental awareness.
The mural was made using photocatalytic paints containing titanium dioxide — a compound that, when exposed to light, oxygen, and humidity, helps cleanse the air of smog, bacteria, and allergens.
“This is one of 11 ecological murals in the region, showing how art can help create a cleaner environment,” explained Olgierd Geblewicz, president of the West Pomerania region.
The mural’s design was chosen through a public contest that drew more than 13,000 participants, underscoring the city’s deep affection for its former street king.
A cat written into Szczecin’s history
Gacek’s fame has crossed Poland’s borders, earning coverage from international outlets such as The Washington Post, The Guardian, and The Independent. Today, the cat lives safely in a shelter, but his story continues to resonate — a reminder of how one small animal can unite a community and become the unlikely ambassador of an entire city.
