The Manneken-pis

Manneken-Pis: Brussels’ rebellious child just a short walk from 9Hotel Chelton

Less than a 10-minute walk from 9Hotel Chelton, in the heart of historic Brussels, stands one of the city’s most iconic and endearing monuments: Manneken-Pis. More than just a statue, this small bronze boy embodies the very essence of Brussels’ personality — cheeky, free-spirited, and proudly unique.

A tiny statue with global fame

Manneken-Pis — literally “little man peeing” in local dialect — may only be 55 centimetres tall, but his reputation is truly international. Positioned at the corner of Rue de l'Étuve and Rue du Chêne, this small sculpture of a boy urinating into a fountain has become one of the most photographed and recognised symbols of Brussels.

Created in 1619 by sculptor Jérôme Duquesnoy the Elder, the version you see today is a replica. The original statue has been stolen several times and now rests safely in the Brussels City Museum, located in the Maison du Roi on the Grand Place.

A legend shrouded in humour

As with many beloved landmarks, Manneken-Pis comes with his share of quirky legends. One popular tale suggests that a little boy saved the city from a great fire by urinating on a lit fuse. Another claims he was the lost son of a nobleman, found relieving himself on the very spot where the statue now stands.

Regardless of which version you prefer, the story always highlights Brussels’ spirit of rebellion, humour and self-mockery.

A wardrobe like no other

If you visit Brussels at different times of the year, you might notice that Manneken-Pis rarely wears the same outfit twice. That’s because he owns an astonishing wardrobe of over 1,000 costumes, ranging from traditional Belgian outfits to football jerseys, firefighter uniforms, and even astronaut suits. These costumes are changed during special events or public celebrations, often accompanied by music and festive parades.

Want to see more? All his outfits are carefully preserved and displayed at the GardeRobe MannekenPis Museum, located just a few steps from the statue.

Meet his quirky family: Jeanneke Pis and Zinneke

Brussels’ humour doesn’t stop with Manneken-Pis. Just around the corner in a small alley off Rue des Bouchers, you’ll find Jeanneke Pis, the female counterpart. Inaugurated in 1987, this statue shows a little girl squatting and urinating, hidden behind a protective fence.

And that’s not all — meet Zinneke Pis, a statue of a dog lifting its leg, located on Rue des Chartreux. Three statues, one city, and a shared sense of irreverence and originality.

How to get there from 9Hotel Chelton

From 9Hotel Chelton, it’s an easy 10-minute walk to reach Manneken-Pis. Along the way, consider strolling through Brussels Park, passing Place Royale, and continuing down to the Grand Place, one of the most beautiful squares in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage site.

📍 Manneken-Pis address:
Rue de l'Étuve 46, 1000 Brussels

A must-see during your stay

When you stay at 9Hotel Chelton, you're ideally located to explore Brussels' most fascinating and unconventional landmarks. Whether you're travelling solo, as a couple, or with family, Manneken-Pis is a fun and essential stop that captures the spirit of the city.

Our team will be delighted to offer tips for your visit and help you experience Brussels through the eyes of a local.