You're no doubt familiar with the Manneken-Pis, the bronze statuette that attracts crowds with cameras just a stone's throw from the Grand-Place. But how did this statue come into being? Originally, the statuette was a simple decoration adorning one of the many fountains that supplied the city with water in the Middle Ages. Although other statues had previously borne its name, the famous little boy relieving himself, who everyone knows today, is the work of Jérôme Duquesnoy l'Ancien, who made it in 1619. He has gone from being a public fountain to a legendary figure. In addition to his purely material appearance, Manneken-Pis has, on various occasions, taken on the symbolic roles of protector of the city and spokesman for the people of Brussels, personifying them in a way that is often mischievous and irreverent. Today, he embodies the rebellious yet modest spirit that reigns in Brussels. Over the years, it has become customary to dress the statue up for special occasions. Fitted out with numerous costumes and decorations, sometimes gifts from important political figures, his wardrobe includes more than 1,000 pieces, which can be admired at the GardeRobe MannekenPis, a museum opened in 2017. The oldest was donated by the Elector of Bavaria in 1698. Sadly, Manneken-Pis has been subjected to numerous acts of vandalism. The original statuette, stolen and damaged on several occasions, now rests safely in the Brussels City Museum (housed in the King's House on the Grand-Place).
Manneken-Pis
Location: Rue de l'Etuve, 1000 Brussels
