Brussels Mannekin Pis

Manneken Pis: More Than Just a Peeing Statue

Brussels, the charming capital of Belgium, is known for its delicious chocolate, vibrant art scene, and its unique sense of humor. And what better symbol of that quirky charm than Manneken Pis, the beloved (and infamous) bronze statue of a little boy relieving himself?

While this iconic Brussels landmark might be small in stature, it’s big on personality and history. But don’t let the name fool you – there’s more to discover about Brussels’ “Peeing Boy” than just its quirky title.

Where to Find Manneken Pis:

This mischievous fountain is located in the heart of Brussels, a short walk from the Grand Place. Its central location makes it easy to find and explore on foot.

The Legend (and Reality) of the Little Guy:

Manneken Pis, translated as “Little Man Pee,” is a small but charming statue of a naked boy peeing into a fountain’s basin. It may seem odd for a tourist attraction, but this quirky depiction of a little boy urinating, a symbol of Brussels since the 17th century, has become an iconic part of the city’s identity.

Why is it so popular?

  • Its history: The legend of the statue is fascinating, with stories ranging from its origins as a fountain to commemorate a rebellion against Spanish rule, to tales of him saving Brussels from a fire and even being a symbol of good luck!
  • The charm: People are drawn to Manneken Pis’s quirky nature. He’s a mischievous reminder that even in the most grand and historic of cities, there’s always room for whimsy.

What to See:

  • The Manneken Pis: The original statue is a tiny but delightful bronze sculpture hidden in a charming fountain setting.
  • The “Manneken” statues: Throughout Brussels, you can find over 900 statues of the “Manneken” (there are even different costumes for him!)

A Few Fun Facts:

  • The statue is only about 60 cm (2 feet) tall.
  • It’s a tradition for tourists to buy “Manneken Pis” souvenirs – there are over 1,500 outfits for the little statue, and new ones are often presented by local organizations.
  • The tradition of dressing the statue dates back to the 17th century, with the first recorded instance in 1619.

Things to Do:

  • Enjoy a Belgian Waffle: No trip to Brussels is complete without indulging in a fluffy, delicious waffle! Find a local stand and enjoy the traditional treat.
  • Sip on Belgian Beer: Belgium is renowned for its beer culture, so grab a glass (or two!) of a local brew at one of the many traditional pubs or breweries in the city.

Places to Stay:

  • Grand Place Hotels: For a luxurious stay with stunning views of the iconic square, choose from hotels like Hotel de l’Europe or The Amigo.
  • Charming B&Bs: Experience the warmth and hospitality of Brussels’ locals at a cozy bed and breakfast near attractions like the Atomium or the Magritte Museum.

Food to Try:

  • Moules-frites: A classic for a reason! This dish, consisting of mussels steamed in white wine and herbs, served with double-fried potatoes, is a must-try in Brussels.
  • Belgian Waffles: Enjoy these delicious treats at Maison Dandoy, a charming bakery on the Rue de la Bourse that has been serving them since 1820.

Other Things to See:

  • Atomium: This iconic structure offers stunning views and is a fascinating exploration of architecture and history.
  • Manneken Pis: It’s not just a statue! The “Manneken” stands in the heart of Brussels, symbolizing the city’s playful spirit.

More Than Just a Statue:

The Mannekin Pis statues are a unique part of Brussels culture and history.

  • The Atomium: A giant iron crystal representing the structure of an iron molecule.
  • Belgian Chocolate: Visit one of the many chocolatiers in Brussels to experience the decadent flavors of Belgian chocolate.

Beyond the Quirky: Exploring the History of the “Manneken Pis”

The little bronze statue is a symbol of defiance and resilience for the people of Brussels, and it’s said that he represents the spirit of the city itself.

  • Brussels Grand Place: A beautiful medieval square in the heart of Brussels.
  • Magritte Museum: This museum celebrates the surrealist art of René Magritte.

But why is a small statue a symbol?

The “Manneken Pis” legend may be a bit exaggerated, but there’s a lot more to the statue than just its cute name. It’s a reminder of Brussels’ rich history and artistic heritage.

  • For the original “Manneken Pis”: Look for the iconic statues of the “Manneken” (a small boy) in various locations throughout the city.

Beyond the “Little Man”:

The Manneken Pis statue is a beloved symbol of Brussels, but it’s not just about the little boy! There are many museums and galleries dedicated to art, history, and culture in the city.