City of the Mermaid, Warsaw, Poland

One of the official symbols of the city of Warsaw is the mermaid.  It is incorporated in the art and architecture throughout the city.

The statue above is an example of the imagery surrounding the mermaid.  She is often depicted holding a sword and shield raised in defense of the city.

Public works like lights and water fountains include images of the mermaid.

Even door handles, like the one above, have small nods to the legend of the mermaid.

The legend of the mermaid is that before the city was formed, there was a man that fell in love with a mermaid.  Unfortunately, he could not live in the sea and she could not live on land.  So, the man settled the city on the river so that they could live close to each other throughout their lives.