Manneken Pis: Brussles’ Pissing Boy

Created in 1619, Manneken Pis is among Brussels’ most famous statues. Literally translated as “Little Man Piss,” the statue — only 2 feet tall — can be found behind a small fence at the corner of rue de l’Etuve and rue Chênet. If you show up on the right day, he may even be wearing one of his 600 costumes — most of which are freaking hilarious! — and all of which can be seen at the Musée de la Ville de Bruxelles.

Despite numerous legends about how he got there — to deter enemies; to extinguish a lit fuse — Manneken has led a bizarre and action-packed life, including escaping numerous kidnappings.

If you doubt the value of taking time out of your chocolate-tour to see the diminutive statue, check out the hundreds of positive reviews of the attraction on Virtual Tourist. Despite being small, Manneken Pis sure is a big hit.

If you visit, don’t pass up the chance to get a commemorative corkscrew. Also, be sure to spend a few minutes checking out his sister, Jeanneke Pis.