A tiny bronze statue of a little boy urinating merrily into a little fountain is Manneken Pis, world renown as being Belgium's national symbol. Jerôme Duquesnoy carved the statue to replace the stone statue, Little Julian, that had stood in that spot since the 14th century and was seized by French soldiers. It is said that the statue was to honour a small boy who had put out a fire, but it is also said that he was a nobleman’s son, and also that the statue represents the Belgian dislike of the occupying authority. There are hundreds of costumes in which the statue is regularly dressed for ceremonies and the like, most of which have been gifts from rulers of various countries, and other important people. His female cohort, Jeanneke Pis, squats in an alley at the Petit Sablon.

Brussels Manneken Pis is Belgium's most famous little boy, and if he does not pique you curiosity, then nothing will. Brussels is a most interesting and entertaining city with a completely unique outlook. You will instantly notice the friendliness and openness of the people, especially at the exceptional Brussels Hotels.