Manneken Pis

About

Famous bronze fountain sculpture of a urinating boy, symbol of Brussels' rebellious spirit. Often dressed in various costumes throughout the year.

Manneken Pis is a small bronze fountain in central Brussels, Belgium, and one of the city's best-known sights. It stands at Rue de l'Étuve 46, in the old heart of the city, where it is easy to find on foot while exploring the streets around the Grand-Place.

The sculpture shows a little boy, about the size you would expect of a child, caught in a playful and cheeky pose. Visitors often arrive expecting something grand and leave smiling, because the figure is more mischievous than monumental. It is also known as the Little Pissing Man, a name that suits its irreverent character.

What to expect

  • A compact bronze statue, so the visit is short and easy to fit into a walk.
  • A figure that is regularly dressed in different costumes through the year, so what you see may differ from one visit to the next.
  • A piece that is widely seen as a symbol of Brussels' rebellious spirit, which many people find a fitting introduction to the city's humour.

Around the statue

Because the fountain sits in the historic centre, it works well as part of a wider stroll. The narrow lanes nearby are lined with cafés, shops and old buildings, and the Grand-Place is within easy walking distance. Many visitors combine a look at the statue with an hour or two of wandering the centre before choosing a place to eat.

If you want to check details before you go, the site can be reached by phone at +32 2 512 77 30. A visit to Manneken Pis is best suited to anyone who enjoys small, characterful sights and wants a light, memorable stop in the city centre.

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