Manneken-Pis: the emblem of Brussels
Updated on November 29, 2022 by pierre
The statue that pees in Brussels: Manneken-Pis, the emblem of Brussels
Formerly in pierre, the bronze statuette depicting the urinating little boy known as Manneken-Pis constitutes a heritage of the city of Brussels. Located between rue de l'Étuve and rue du Chêne, it embodies the rebellious spirit of Brussels. She is part of unusual statues not to be missed in Brussels.
During your visit to Brussels, you will probably pass by the Grand-Place in Brussels. Add Maneken-piss to your itinerary during your visit. Our article on inexpensive lunches at the Grand-Place might also be of interest to you.
The legend of Manneken-Pis, the boy-statue who peed
In 1619, Jerome Duquesnoy, a renowned sculptor from Brussels was responsible for casting the bronze statuette. Victim of several thefts, the Manneken-Pis escaped the bombardment of Brussels in 1695. Many legends enrich the history of the statuette. The story of the child who urinated on the front door of the witch's house, that of the little boy who saved the city, and that of the baptized Bishop were the most famous. Rich in history, it is an essential witness to the history of the city and takes part in the life of the city. She participates in various events. Whatever the characteristics of these events (cultural, religious, social, etc.), the Manneken-Pis never ceases to surprise its audience with its charm and authenticity.
Manneken Pis costumes
The Manneken-Pis is characterized above all by the originality of her wardrobe. Apart from the exceptional events in which she participates and during which she wears very specific outfits, the statuette has a calendar of fixed dressings. On the 2nd Saturday of January, he honors the Chief of the “Mey boom” Fanfare by wearing his costume. On February 3 and 6, he plays the role of "Monsieur Beulemans" and the 1st class soldier of the Chasseurs Ardennais. On April 30, he dresses as a 1st class soldier of the Foreign Legion. On December 4 and 21 to 25, he wears the firefighters' and Santa Claus's turnout gear. Its visitors can discover this emblem of the city of Brussels from Tuesday to Sunday from 10 a.m. to 17 p.m. Open to the public, its access price varies depending on whether the visitor is an adult, an elderly person or a student.
Beers near Manneken-pis:Delirium
Not far from the street of the butchers in Brussels, the Delirum Café beer manneken-pis is located in a small dead end in the face of “Jeanneke-Pis“. The Delirium café Brussels holds the world record for the number of different beers on the menu: over 2.000 beers!
The Delirum café not only serves Belgian beer, but also offers an impressive number of beers from other countries. So there is something for everyone.
If you haven't heard of the Maneken-Piss dog yet: don't miss our article on Zinneken Piss
