Manneken Pis
Bruxelles-Capitale: Région de
Manneken Pis is a famous 55.5 cm bronze fountain sculpture located in central Brussels, Belgium. Depicting a nude little boy urinating into a basin, it serves as a unique symbol of Brussels and Belgian folk humor known as zwanze. The statue was redesigned by sculptor Jérôme Duquesnoy the Elder and installed in 1619, with its rocaille style blue stone niche dating from 1770. Throughout its history, the statue has been stolen and damaged multiple times, leading to the display of a replica on site since 1965 while the original is preserved in the Brussels City Museum. Manneken Pis is renowned for its extensive wardrobe of around a thousand costumes, which are exhibited in the nearby GardeRobe MannekenPis museum. Located near the Grand-Place, it is easily accessible and remains a beloved cultural emblem that embodies the spirit and humor of Brussels.
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Tip: Visit Manneken Pis during festivals or special events when the statue is dressed in one of its many costumes for a unique cultural experience. It is recommended to explore the nearby GardeRobe MannekenPis museum to see the full collection of outfits. The statue is best viewed on foot as it is located in a pedestrian area near the Grand-Place. Tickets are free to view the statue, but consider purchasing combined tickets for the museum to enhance your visit. Early mornings or late afternoons are less crowded times to appreciate the statue.
Interesting facts
- •Manneken Pis has a wardrobe of around one thousand costumes.
- •The statue is a prime example of Belgian folk humor called zwanze.
- •Since 1965, a replica has been displayed on site while the original is kept in the Brussels City Museum.
- •The statue is only 55.5 cm (21.9 in) tall.
- •Manneken Pis is often dressed for festivals and special events, reflecting local culture.
History
The earliest record of Manneken Pis dates back to 1451–52 as part of Brussels' water distribution system.
The original statue stood on a column and poured water into a stone basin.
In 1619, the bronze statue was commissioned and created by Jérôme Duquesnoy the Elder, replacing the original.
The supporting column and basin were remodeled by Daniel Raessens.
Over the centuries, the statue was repeatedly stolen or damaged, necessitating the installation of a replica in 1965.
The statue's niche was added in 1770 in rocaille style.
Its long history has made it an enduring symbol of Brussels.
Place Guide
Manneken Pis Statue1619
The central bronze statue depicting a little boy urinating, designed by Jérôme Duquesnoy the Elder in 1619. It is a symbol of Brussels' humor and resilience.
Rocaille Style Niche1770
The blue stone niche surrounding the statue, added in 1770, designed in the rocaille artistic style, providing an elegant frame for the statue.
GardeRobe MannekenPis Museum2017
A nearby museum exhibiting the extensive wardrobe of Manneken Pis, featuring around one thousand costumes that the statue has worn over the years.
