Manneken pis brussels

Manneken Pis is the iconic bronze statue in Brussels depicting a urinating boy, symbol of the city's humor and resilience.

About this subject

Manneken Pis, also known as 'Little Julien', is a 61-centimeter bronze statue located at the intersection of Rue de l'Étuve and Rue des Grands Carmes in the historic center of Brussels. Created in 1619 by Flemish sculptor Hieronymus Duquesnoy the Elder, the artwork depicts a naked boy urinating into a fountain. The original statue was stolen multiple times over the centuries; the current one is a replica from 1965, with the original preserved at the Musée de la Ville de Bruxelles.

Numerous legends surround its origin. The most popular tells of a boy who extinguished a burning fuse by urinating on it, preventing a castle explosion. Another version claims the statue honors a lost son of a wealthy merchant. Regardless of the legend, Manneken Pis has become a symbol of Brussels' irreverent and independent spirit, celebrating humor and freedom.

A striking feature is its wardrobe. The statue owns over 1,000 costumes, kept at the Garderobe Manneken Pis museum. The outfits are changed regularly in ceremonies, representing gifts from countries, associations, and even celebrities. The collection ranges from military uniforms to traditional clothing from various nations, such as a Japanese kimono or Brazilian gaucho attire.

Tourists from around the world visit the site, making it one of the most photographed attractions in Belgium. Despite its small size, the statue draws crowds. Nearby, there are also Jeanneke Pis (urinating girl) and Zinneke Pis (urinating dog), forming a trio of irreverent statues that reflect the city's humorous character.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where exactly is Manneken Pis located?

Manneken Pis is located at the intersection of Rue de l'Étuve and Rue des Grands Carmes in the historic center of Brussels, just a short walk from the Grand Place.

Why is Manneken Pis so famous?

It is famous for its irreverent nature and the many legends surrounding it, as well as its vast wardrobe of over a thousand costumes that are regularly changed in public ceremonies.

What is the history behind the statue?

Created in 1619 by Hieronymus Duquesnoy the Elder, the statue has legendary origins: the most popular tells of a boy who saved the city by extinguishing a gunpowder fuse with urine. The current statue is a replica from 1965.