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Manneken Pis: Brussels' Cheeky Icon

Discover the charm and history of Brussels' most famous little statue, a symbol of the city's rebellious spirit and playful nature.

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Manneken Pis, a small bronze statue depicting a boy urinating into a fountain, is a beloved symbol of Brussels, embodying the city's humor and rebellious spirit. Located near the Grand Place, this iconic statue attracts visitors from around the world.

A brief summary to Manneken Pis

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning or later in the evening to avoid crowds.
  • Check the schedule to see if Manneken Pis is dressed in one of his famous costumes.
  • Visit the GardeRobe MannekenPis museum to see the statue's extensive wardrobe.
  • Take a short walk to see Jeanneke Pis and Zinneke Pis, the other members of Brussels' "peeing" trio.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    Manneken Pis is located in the heart of Brussels, just a few minutes' walk from the Grand Place. From the Grand Place, walk south on Rue Charles Buls, then turn right onto Rue de l'Étuve. The statue is at the junction of Rue de l'Étuve and Rue du Chêne. There are no costs associated with walking to the statue.

  • Public Transport

    The nearest metro station to Manneken Pis is Brussels Central Station. From Brussels Central Station, it is a short walk to the statue. Alternatively, take bus line 33 from Bourse to Anneessens. The journey takes approximately 1 minute and costs €3. From Anneessens, it is a short walk to Manneken Pis. Bus lines 48, 95, N04, N05, N09, N10, N11, and N12 also stop near Manneken Pis.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Brussels. A taxi from Brussels Central Station to Manneken Pis takes approximately 3 minutes and costs €6-€8. A taxi from Brussels Airport to Manneken Pis takes approximately 21 minutes.

  • Parking

    Parking near Manneken Pis can be challenging. Street parking is available but can be costly. There are several parking garages in the area, including Mobypark. Parking rates vary, but expect to pay around €1.80 for 1 hour or €5.50 for 2 hours. Mobypark offers parking spaces from €0.81 per hour.

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Discover more about Manneken Pis

Manneken Pis, meaning "Little Pissing Man" in Dutch, is a landmark bronze fountain sculpture in central Brussels, Belgium. This 55.5 cm (21.9 in) statue depicts a naked little boy urinating into the fountain's basin. Though its existence is attested to as early as the mid-15th century, the Manneken Pis was redesigned by the Brabantine sculptor Jérôme Duquesnoy the Elder and put in place in 1619. Originally, Manneken Pis served as a public fountain, providing drinking water to the city's residents. Over time, it transformed into a symbol of Brussels' folklore, joy, and self-mockery. The statue is known for its extensive wardrobe of over 1,000 costumes, which are often donned to celebrate holidays, cultural events, and international traditions. These outfits are displayed at the GardeRobe MannekenPis Museum. Several legends surround the Manneken Pis. One tells the tale of a young boy who saved the city by extinguishing a fire with his urine. Another story suggests the statue commemorates a boy who relieved himself on enemy troops during a siege, demoralizing them and helping to protect the city. The statue has been stolen and damaged many times throughout its history. The original statue from 1619 is now kept at the Brussels City Museum, with a replica displayed on-site. The Manneken Pis is part of a playful trio, alongside Jeanneke Pis (a peeing girl) and Zinneke Pis (a peeing dog), symbolizing the city's lighthearted nature. During special events, the fountain sometimes flows with beer or chocolate, adding a fun twist to the experience.

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