The History of Manneken Pis

Do you know the stories and history of Manneken Pis? Let me take you on a journey back in time to explore the history of Manneken Pis. Please read till the end.

If you visit Brussels, the capital of Belgium, it is not complete if you don’t stop by the Manneken Pis, the famous bronze fountain statue located in the heart of the city. The Boy-peeing statue is a monument that commemorates the people of Belgium. There are interesting stories and history behind the existence of this statue.

History of Manneken Pis

Manneken Pis is said to have existed for over 600 years. The origin of this statue is shrouded in mystery, with several legends and myths surrounding its creation. Despite this, the Manneken Pis has become an iconic symbol of Brussels and Belgium. It is beloved by locals and visitors alike.

First Story

One of the most widely accepted legends about the Manneken Pis is that it was created to honor a young boy who put out a fire by urinating on it. The story goes that in 1142, a large fire broke out in the city of Brussels and threatened to destroy the entire town. A young boy named Julian, who was said to have been only a few years old, bravely urinated on the flames and saved the city from destruction. In gratitude, the townspeople erected a statue in his honor, depicting the boy urinating in a fountain.

Second Story

Another popular legend claims that the statue was created to commemorate a young prince who was captured by enemies and held for ransom. According to this story, the prince’s father was so relieved when his son was returned that he commissioned a statue to commemorate the event. This statue was said to have depicted the prince urinating in celebration of his freedom.

Icon of the city

Regardless of the origin of the statue, the Manneken Pis quickly became a beloved icon of Brussels and was often the subject of elaborate festivals and celebrations.

Over the centuries, the statue has been dressed in a variety of costumes, from military uniforms to traditional Belgian costumes, to mark special events and holidays. It has also been the target of theft and vandalism, but each time the statue has been recovered or restored, the people of Brussels have rallied around it, further cementing its place as a symbol of the city’s pride and resilience.

Remade in bronze

In the late 17th century, the Manneken Pis was remade in bronze and became a popular tourist attraction. Throughout the centuries, the statue has been displayed in various locations throughout the city, including the town hall and several museums, but it has always returned to its original location on the Rue de l’Étuve.

In the early 20th century, the city of Brussels even created a museum dedicated solely to the Manneken Pis, showcasing its history and the many costumes it has worn over the years.

The Manneken Pis has also inspired numerous other works of art, including paintings, sculptures, and even a comic strip. Its image has been reproduced on everything from postcards to chocolate boxes, making it one of the most recognizable symbols of Brussels and Belgium.

Mannekin Pis Today

Today, the Manneken Pis continues to be a source of pride and inspiration for the people of Brussels. Anywhere you go, you will see this statue. Whether in the streets, in a waffle shop, in a souvenir shop, or even anywhere the statue will steal your view.

Million visitors from around the world come to admire the statue, and it remains one of the city’s most popular tourist attractions.

Whether the legends about its creation are true or not, the Manneken Pis has become a symbol of the resilience, humor, and creativity of the people of Brussels, and will likely continue to be cherished for generations to come.

In conclusion, the Manneken Pis is more than just a bronze statue of a little boy urinating. It is a symbol of the rich history and cultural heritage of Brussels and Belgium, a testament to the resilience and spirit of its people, and a beloved icon that continues to inspire and delight visitors from around the world.