Manneken Pis

The exact origins of the statue in Brussels are unclear. Some believe that the "Peeing Boy" fountain was created in the 15th century as a reminder of the past Grimbergen war.

After the death of the ruler of Lower Lorraine, Godfrey II, the throne passed to his son, Godfrey III of Leuven, who was just two years old at the time. During military operations, the future monarch's cradle was hung on a tree to inspire the battling soldiers. Naturally, the child urinated directly on the fighters below.

Another legend suggests the statue was made in honor of a boy who extinguished a lit fuse from city wall munitions with his urine stream.

Historians know that the modern appearance of the "Peeing Boy" statue was crafted by court sculptor Jérôme Duquesnoy in 1619.

Since the end of the 17th century, the statue has been stolen multiple times — each time, it was replaced with a replica.

The "Peeing Boy" statue, standing 61 cm tall, is positioned on a pedestal, making it appear to look down on onlookers. An arch resembling a shell is located above the statue.

The fountain is framed by a wrought iron grille. Security cameras and alarms are used to protect this landmark.

Belgians have developed various traditions around this famous landmark. For instance, instead of a water stream, the fountain sometimes flows with beer or wine.

Since the 17th century, the "Manneken Pis" figure has been dressed in costumes. This custom started in 1698 when Elector Maximilian Emanuel sent the statue its first outfit.

The tradition has persisted: now, a list of costumes to be worn by the "Peeing Boy" statue over the course of a month is displayed next to the fountain by the organization "The Friends of Manneken Pis".

To add grandeur to the ceremony during the statue's dressing, a brass band performs.

The "Peeing Boy" statue's wardrobe contains hundreds of outfits. It has been dressed as Napoleon, Elvis Presley, a diver, worn national costumes, and appeared as characters from cartoons and movies.