Manneken pis brussels

Manneken Pis is the iconic bronze statuette in Brussels depicting a urinating boy, a historic and cultural symbol of Belgium.

About this subject

Manneken Pis is a small bronze statue standing 61 centimeters tall, located in the historic center of Brussels, at the intersection of Rue de l'Étuve and Rue des Grands Carmes. Created in 1619 by Flemish sculptor Hieronymus Duquesnoy the Elder, it was originally part of a public fountain. The figure depicts a naked boy standing and urinating into a basin. Several legends surround its origin: one says a boy extinguished the fuse of an enemy bomb with his urine, saving the city; another tells of a wealthy merchant's son who disappeared and was found urinating on a street corner, leading his father to commission the statue in celebration.

The statue has become one of the most famous symbols of Brussels and Belgium, attracting tourists from around the world. It is frequently dressed in costumes, a tradition dating back to the 18th century. Manneken Pis has a wardrobe of over 1,000 outfits, changed during special ceremonies and displayed at the Musée de la Ville de Bruxelles on the Grand-Place. The costumes represent diverse themes such as professions, nations, historical events, and pop culture. Over the centuries, the statue has been subject to theft and vandalism but has always been restored.

Nearby, there are similar statues in the city: Jeanneke Pis, a female version created in 1985, and Zinneke Pis, a urinating dog installed in 1998. These works are part of a set of statues that playfully address the theme of urination, becoming quirky attractions. Manneken Pis's fame has spread globally, with replicas in Japan, France, and the United States. The statue embodies the irreverent spirit and local identity of Brussels residents, serving as a meeting point and celebration site, especially during festivals.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where exactly is Manneken Pis located?

Manneken Pis is located in the historic center of Brussels, at the corner of Rue de l'Étuve and Rue des Grands Carmes, near the Grand-Place.

Why is Manneken Pis so famous?

The statue is an iconic symbol of Brussels and Belgium, famous for its history, legends, and the tradition of dressing it in various costumes, as well as its irreverent humor.

Is Manneken Pis the only statue of this kind in Brussels?

No. Besides Manneken Pis, there are Jeanneke Pis (a girl) and Zinneke Pis (a dog), all depicting urination, forming a quirky set.