Emblem of Brussels, the Manneken-Pis hides many secrets behind its mischievous water jet. This iconic statuette personifies the zwanze, the typical Brussels humor, and the independent spirit of the inhabitants of the Belgian capital. Let’s delve into the fascinating world of this little fellow, who has been surprising visitors for centuries.
A left-handed man like no other
Look closely at the Manneken-Pis and you’ll notice an intriguing detail: he’s left-handed. This peculiarity, far from being insignificant, reinforces its atypical character. At a time when being left-handed was frowned upon, this bold choice by the sculptor symbolizes difference and originality, making the little boy a true bronze rebel.
A wardrobe worthy of a model
Manneken-Pis is a true fashionista! With over 1,000 outfits to his credit, he could rival the greatest fashion stars. From Elvis Presley to cosmonauts to tartan kilts, our little Bruxellois changes his look more often than not. An impressive dressing room that would make many a fashion house green with envy!
A look-alike at Grammont
Did you know that the Manneken-Pis has a twin? In the Flemish town of Grammont stands a copy dating back to 1459, which is older than the current Brussels version. This good-natured rivalry between the two towns adds a touch of spice to the story of our famous statuette.
A surprisingly feminine version
In 1987, a little sister to the Manneken-Pis appeared on the streets of Brussels. Named Jeanneke-Pis, this statue depicts a little girl squatting and urinating. Located in the impasse de la Fidélité, just a few steps from her illustrious brother, she symbolizes equality between men and women, while perpetuating the rebellious spirit of the Belgian capital.
A controversial tourist attraction
Despite its popularity, the Manneken-Pis has not escaped criticism. According to a recent study, it’s one of the world’s worst tourist attractions. Some visitors, disappointed by its small size, leave frustrated. But isn’t it precisely this discrepancy between its renown and its modest appearance that makes it so charming?