A new museum houses the costumes of Manneken-Pis
A 55cm-high bronze statuette is a must-see for all tourists visiting Brussels. Rue de L’Étuve, a stone's throw from the Grand Place, is constantly busy, but that doesn't disturb Manneken-Pis, who calmly carries on with his business. But the small urinating boy, originally a public fountain, is unlikely to get cold despite the wintry weather. He actually has an impressive wardrobe of almost 1,000 costumes.
Since 4 February 2017, this unique and original collection has had its own dedicated exhibition space: the Wardrobe of Manneken-Pis, Rue du Chêne 19, 1000 Brussels, just a short walk from its owner. The vast range of costumes is truly surprising - the oldest dates back to Louis XV, who gave him a gentleman's outfit and made him a Knight of the Order of St Louis. Since then he has been dressed as a samurai, a Gille de Binche, a court jester, a student of the University of Brussels (ULB), Mozart and Elvis Presley - he has taken on almost every job and every role. For more information about the ketje (little boy in the Brussels dialect, pronounced quetcheu), his wardrobe and the new museum, go to www.mannekenpis.brussels.