Manneken Pis: Brussels' Cheeky Icon

Manneken Pis, Dutch for 'Little Pissing Man,' is a bronze fountain sculpture in central Brussels depicting a naked little boy urinating into the fountain's basin. Though its existence is attested as early as the mid-15th century, the current statue was created by Jérôme Duquesnoy the Elder in 1619. The statue stands at 55.5 cm (21.9 in) tall and is located at the junction of Rue du Chêne/Eikstraat and the pedestrian Rue de l'Étuve/Stoofstraat, a few minutes walk from the Grand-Place. Originally, Manneken Pis served as a public water source. Over time, it transformed into a cultural icon, known for its 'zwanze,' a unique form of local humor. Several legends surround the statue, including tales of a boy saving the city from fire or relieving himself on enemy troops. The statue is regularly dressed in costumes, with over 1,000 outfits in its wardrobe. These costumes are displayed at the GardeRobe MannekenPis museum. Manneken Pis embodies the rebellious spirit of Brussels and its inhabitants' capacity for self-mockery. On special occasions, the fountain even flows with beer or wine.