Manekin Pis: Don't Miss the Peeing Boy in Belgium

No trip to Belgium would be complete without a stop to see Manekin Pis, the statue of the young peeing boy. He is located near the Grand Place, and is a very popular tourist stop. For blocks around you can find little souvenirs of the peeing boy...everything from key chains to figurines with little hoses. The actual boy is only about 20 inches high. He stands proudly above a lovely fountain, peeing day in and day out. Legend has it that centuries ago, a young boy was lost. His father stated that he would have a statue constructed in the boy's honor when he was found. After much searching, the boy was found safe and sound....urinating beside a bush. Thus, the birth of the famous Manekin Pis. No one really knows the origin of this monument. There are several stories and legends, some being more believable than others. At times, the boy is naked...which he was when I saw him. However, he has a wardrobe of over 600 costumes, which he sports from time to time.

Of course, this isn't the only must see in Belgium. The Grand Place is lovely, and the churches breath taking. Within driving distance, you can visit several castles. There's an interesting one in the small town of Dinant, where you can tour the castle which sits on top of a cliff, overlooking the city. Dinant is also noted for being the birth place of Adolphe Sax, who invented the saxophone. He was born on the second floor of a downtown building. Unfortunately, the first floor of the building now hosts a dollar store, but his birthplace is clearly marked. Another good place to visit is Waterloo, with it's Butte De Lion. Cities to visit nearby are Brugge and Antwerp. Don't forget to sample the decadent chocolates, and the delicious gaufrettes.

Belgium is an interesting country. It is only about the size of the state of Maryland, but it is jam packed with things to do. You will find that many people speak English, but you will also hear several different languages when you visit this country. Tour guides and fast food workers are usually multi-lingual. Signs and menus are frequently printed in English, so it's not difficult to find your way around.

The sights, sounds, and tastes of Belgium are delightful, making it a quaint place to visit.