🇧🇪Story of the Mannekin Pis😊🇧🇪

#magicalxmastrip After visiting the magnificent Cathedral of St. Michael and St. Gudula in Brussels, we headed to the iconic Manneken Pis. Now His name translates literally to "peeing little man," and he was formerly known as Petit Julien, or little Julien. Numerous legends surround his origins, with one popular tale claiming the boy saved Brussels from invaders. In this story, the city was besieged, and the enemies pretended to retreat while secretly hiding gunpowder. Young Julien spotted the burning fuse and quickly extinguished it by urinating on it. In gratitude, the city erected a statue in his honor. It’s also a cherished tradition to dress the Manneken Pis for special occasions, such as Christmas; he boasts an impressive wardrobe of over 800 outfits. In my snap, he’s dressed as a clown! ❤️😍 Also opposite this statue is an amazing Belgian Waffle place—had one and it was delicious! Do grab one when you get a chance👍 #xmastrip #xmas2024 #myhiddengems #summervacation #freehotelstay #familytrip #localguides #europe #historicallandmarks #mytravelhacks #passionpassport #awesomepic #urbanexplorer #belgium #foodie #asiatrip #mustdo #food #trip