Mannequin Piss

The bronze sculpture of Mannequin Piss, located a couple of blocks southwest of the Market Square, can be found by the tourists crowding around. Otherwise, the miniature figure is simply invisible.

The fountain is not so much a work of art as it is the source of many unusual traditions. Nobody remembers the exact history of the appearance of the pissing boy: either he extinguished the fire that threatened the city in the Middle Ages in this way, or expressed his contempt for the enemies.

The bronze version, put on its place in 1619, was periodically stolen, including in the 20th century. This is not the first copy before us. From time to time, the Manneken Pis look is changed beyond recognition, dressing him up in different costumes. Only the posture and the stream of water does not change. Although on special holidays it is sometimes replaced by wine.