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Virginia Kouridaki for JAEurope

When it comes to global icons, Brussels might not boast the grandeur of Paris or Rome, but what it does have is a trio of statues that are uniquely cheeky — and unashamedly bladder-sensitive. Meet the famed peeing statues of Brussels, the city’s unofficial ambassadors of whimsy and irreverence.

The first star of this quirky trio is none other than Manneken Pis — a tiny bronze boy, frozen in time, relieving himself into a fountain. This iconic little fellow has been dribbling since the 17th century, quickly becoming a symbol of the Belgian spirit: playful, mischievous, and delightfully irreverent. Tourists adore him not just for his impish charm but also for his celebrity-worthy wardrobe. Over the years, he’s been dressed as everything from a firefighter to Elvis Presley, adding a touch of flair to his already legendary status.

But Manneken Pis isn’t just a statue; he’s a fountain of folklore. Over the centuries, countless urban legends have sprung up to explain why this little boy is forever caught in the act. One of the most popular tales recounts a heroic moment during a siege in the 14th century. According to the story, a young boy saved Brussels by urinating on a fuse, extinguishing the flames of an explosive device and thwarting the enemy’s plans. Another legend paints him as the ultimate prankster — a wealthy merchant’s son who wandered off during a festival and was later found relieving himself in a garden, much to everyone’s amusement.

Yet another whimsical tale suggests that Manneken Pis was commissioned by a father who lost his son in the city. After a frantic search, the boy was found peeing in a corner, and the relieved father immortalised the moment in bronze. Whether he’s a hero, a joker, or simply a mischievous child, these stories add layers of charm and mystery to Brussels’ most famous little statue.

Not one to hog the spotlight, Manneken Pis got some company in the 1980s with the arrival of Jeanneke Pis. This is no damsel in distress — it’s a squat young girl mid-pee, perched confidently on her haunches, as if daring you to judge her. Tucked away in an alley near Rue des Bouchers, Jeanneke doesn’t enjoy the same cult-like status as her male counterpart, but she adds a touch of gender equality to Brussels’ quirky urinary arts scene.

Jeanneke also brings a touch of tradition to her corner of the city. Visitors often toss coins into the fountain at her feet, a gesture said to bring good luck or grant a wish. It’s a charming ritual that adds an interactive element to her presence, making her not just a statue but a symbol of hope and generosity.

Fast-forward to the 1990s, and behold Zinneke Pis, the city’s most democratic take on public peeing. Unlike the first two, Zinneke isn’t connected to a fountain. He’s a dog, caught in a moment familiar to every pet owner — front legs down, back leg lifted, and zero shame. Positioned nonchalantly at the corner of Rue des Chartreux and Rue du Vieux Marché aux Grains, Zinneke celebrates the laid-back, anything-goes attitude of Brussels culture. He’s there, he’s tinkling, and, no, he doesn’t care if you’re watching.

From cheeky legends to heartfelt traditions, Brussels’ peeing statues are more than just quirky landmarks. They’re a celebration of humour, history, and humanity — a reminder that even the smallest figures can leave a lasting impression. After all, who would have thought that a boy, a girl, and a dog caught mid-pee could become cultural icons, drawing millions of visitors and sparking countless conversations? Sometimes, it’s the unexpected that truly makes a splash.

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