The Manneken Pis: history, legends and secrets of the most famous statue in Brussels

What is the Manneken Pis?

It's a statue. A fountain. A child. And a symbol.

The Manneken Pis is a little bronze boy peacefully urinating into a basin. Standing on his pedestal, he measures just 55 centimetres, but he has become a real local celebrity. He embodies the rebellious, mischievous and fun-loving spirit of the city's inhabitants.

You can find him on rue de l’Étuve, near the Grand-Place, tucked into a discreet corner behind wrought-iron railings. Lots of visitors are surprised by how small he is, especially after having seen so many photos. But that's also a big part of the appeal: he's a famous monument, certainly, but never a pretentious one.

So what's the easiest way to go and visit him? Hop on a Tootbus sightseeing bus and get off at stop 7: Grand-Place/Manneken Pis on the red line. Once there, let yourself be guided by the local atmosphere, the cobbled streets, the scent of waffles and the gazes of the tourists - you'll know you're close!

What does ‘Manneken Pis’ mean?

‘Manneken Pis’ literally means ‘little man weeing’ in the Brussels dialect. The word ‘manneken’ is an affectionate diminutive form of ‘man’, meaning man, and ‘pis’ means urinating.

The name sums up this statue perfectly: a little boy having a wee, with a dash of Brussels’ own brand of humour. This colloquial nickname is also a nod to the mischievous and fun-loving spirit of the people of the Belgian capital.

How big is the Manneken Pis?

The Manneken Pis is exactly 55 centimetres tall. Very small, especially when you think about the level of worldwide fame he's achieved. This miniature bronze boy is smaller even than a baby. And it's that contrast that gives this Brussels icon his appeal. Visitors often expect a much more imposing statue, and he never fails to surprise.  His small size also makes him easier to protect. 

Small though he may be, the level of detail is impressive: you can easily make out his facial features, his cheeky stance and, of course, his iconic stream of urine. His compact size also makes him a bit more discreet, making it even more fun searching for him in the streets of the city centre.

Don't leave Brussels without having paid him a visit. Bear in mind that he is protected by wrought-iron railings that stop visitors from getting too close - but they also stop him from being stolen, as has happened multiple times in the past. It just means that you may have to crane your neck a little to glimpse him behind the railings. It's a whole experience, and a chance to really connect with the city.

Who created the Manneken Pis?

The Manneken Pis as we know it today was made in 1619 by Jérôme Duquesnoy the Elder, a sculptor from Brussels well known at the time for his work in bronze. Commissioned by the city council, the statue was intended to decorate a public fountain. But it exceeded its ornamental function and quickly captured the hearts of the people of Brussels. In reality, the Manneken Pis goes back even further than that. We know that a statue of the same name existed back in the 14^th century, but it has been replaced several times over the centuries, often due to theft or damage. Dusquesnoy's, therefore, although considered the original, is actually a more ‘recent’ version.

The one that now stands proudly at the corner of rue de l’Étuve is a replica. The original, too precious to remain where it was, is kept safe at the Brussels City Museum, located in the Maison du Roi (King’s House) on Grand-Place. 

You can go there to see it during your visit - just get off at Tootbus stop 7: Grand-Place/Manneken Pis on the red line, located close by.

Why is the Manneken Pis famous?

It is famous for several reasons. First of all, its quirkiness: a statue of a boy doing a wee is not something you see every day, and that's what people like about it. Secondly, it is at the heart of many legends. Some say that the boy put out a fire by urinating on it, others that he's a symbol of resistance in the face of your enemies. These stories, whether true or invented, have contributed to his reputation.

The Manneken Pis is also known for his impressive collection of costumes. A number of outfits have been gifted to him since the 19^th century, and he wears them regularly to mark special occasions and events, according to a precise schedule. Finally, this statue has lived through centuries, enduring thefts and restorations, but has always kept its place in the hearts of both the people of Brussels and visitors from around the world.

6 fun fact to know

1. The Manneken Pis has an official guard of honour made up of members of several traditional Brussels organisations.
2. He has a sister called Jeanneke Pis, a little girl in a similar pose on a neighbouring street.
3. He also has a dog called Zinneke Pis, depicted urinating against a post.
4. For special occasions, he has urinated wine, beer and even champagne.
5. Each year, there is an official ceremony to change his clothes, often very colourful and original.
6. He regularly receives gifts and outfits sent by embassies or visitors from around the world.

Where can I see the Manneken Pis's costumes?

Most of the Manneken Pis's costumes are displayed at the GardeRobe Manneken Pis, only a few minutes' walk from the statue. The collection contains over 1,000 outfits donated by cities, countries and individuals from around the world.

Among his most famous costumes are his Brussels police officer uniform, his samurai costume and his traditional Flemish outfit. He also wears more original outfits, like his Father Christmas costume and his football kit.

A visit to this museum lets you discover how this little statue became a true symbol of Brussels, capable of celebrating all cultures. 

The Manneken Pis is much more than just a funny statue. It embodies the soul of Brussels; its history, traditions and humour. Small in size but huge in popularity, it never ceases to amaze and amuse visitors and locals alike.

To carry on exploring Brussels a bit differently, why not try out an evening tour in an sightseeing bus ? Admire the city all lit up and see its magnificent landmarks and bustling streets in a different light!

Ready to immerse yourself in the history and magic of Brussels with the famous Manneken Pis?