Il Porcellino Sydney: The Bronze Boar That Brings Good Luck

Introduction

In the bustling heart of Sydney’s hospital district, just outside Sydney Hospital on Macquarie Street, stands a bronze wild boar named Il Porcellino. This statue isn’t just a work of art—it’s a symbol of good fortune, charity, and cultural connection between Italy and Australia. For decades, visitors have rubbed its shiny snout for luck, dropped coins into its fountain, and taken photos with its endearing form.

Il Porcellino is more than a charming sculpture. It’s a faithful replica of the famous Florentine boar housed at the Mercato Nuovo in Florence, Italy. Gifted to Sydney in 1968 by the Marchesa Clarissa Torrigiani in memory of her father, the statue has since become one of the city’s quirkiest landmarks. Funds collected from the fountain support Sydney Hospital, making it both a piece of art and a force for good.

Whether you’re drawn by its story, its shimmering golden nose, or the chance to test the superstition of “rub for luck,” Il Porcellino is a must-see stop on any Sydney walking tour.

What is Il Porcellino in Sydney famous for?

Il Porcellino is famous for being a good-luck statue. Tradition says rubbing its snout brings fortune, and dropping a coin ensures your wish comes true. It’s also known as a replica of Florence’s iconic boar, linking Sydney to Italian heritage.

Why should you visit Il Porcellino in Sydney?

You should visit Il Porcellino because:

It’s one of Sydney’s most unusual and photogenic public statues.

The tradition of rubbing the nose makes it interactive and fun.

Donations go toward supporting Sydney Hospital, so your visit helps a cause.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit Il Porcellino?

Il Porcellino is located outdoors and is accessible 24/7. The best times to visit are during daylight hours when you can see the statue’s bronze details. Early mornings are quiet, while afternoons bring more foot traffic and atmosphere.

How much does it cost to visit Il Porcellino in Sydney?

Visiting Il Porcellino is completely free. If you’d like, you can drop coins into the fountain, which go directly to supporting Sydney Hospital.

What can you see or do at Il Porcellino in Sydney?

Rub the boar’s shiny snout for good luck.

Toss a coin into the fountain and make a wish.

Take photos with one of Sydney’s most beloved statues.

Notice the intricate detail of the sculpture, from the tusks to the hooves.

What is the history behind Il Porcellino in Sydney?

The original “Porcellino” statue was sculpted by Pietro Tacca in 17th-century Florence, Italy. Its reputation as a good-luck charm grew, with thousands of visitors rubbing its nose over centuries.

Sydney’s version arrived in 1968, gifted by Marchesa Clarissa Torrigiani in memory of her father. Since then, it has stood proudly outside Sydney Hospital, becoming a fixture of Macquarie Street and a favourite stop for tourists and locals alike.

Where is Il Porcellino located and how do you get there?

Location: Outside Sydney Hospital, Macquarie Street, Sydney.

By train: St James and Martin Place stations are both a short walk away.

By bus: Buses running along Elizabeth and Macquarie Streets stop nearby.

On foot: Within easy walking distance of Hyde Park, Circular Quay, and the Royal Botanic Garden.

Insider Tips for Visiting Il Porcellino in Sydney

For the best photos, visit in the morning light when the bronze glows.

Look closely—you’ll see countless handprints polished into the boar’s snout over decades.

Pair your visit with a stroll along Macquarie Street, home to some of Sydney’s grandest colonial buildings.

Nearby Attractions to Il Porcellino in Sydney

Hyde Park: Sydney’s oldest public park with fountains and monuments.

State Library of New South Wales: A treasure trove of history and exhibitions.

Royal Botanic Garden Sydney: Just a short walk for lush greenery and harbour views.

Sydney Opera House: Iconic architecture, only 15 minutes away on foot.

Museum of Sydney: Discover stories of the city’s colonial beginnings.

Turn Your Visit Into an Adventure

Il Porcellino is more than a quirky boar statue—it’s a story of international friendship, tradition, and charity that has charmed Sydney for decades. Visiting connects you not just to Sydney’s heritage, but also to a centuries-old Italian custom.

Want to take your adventure further? With a Questo quest, you can explore Sydney’s Macquarie Street and cultural quarter through puzzles, clues, and interactive storytelling. Follow the trail from Il Porcellino to the State Library, Hyde Park, and beyond—discovering secrets that even locals often miss.