This little guy is hardly a secret, but less well known is his extensive wardrobe. At the GardeRobe Manneken Pis you can admire a selection of the statue’s more than 1000 outfits.

The fountain’s existence dates back to at least the mid-15th century, recorded in a c.1451–52 document regarding water lines supplying the fountains of Brussels. He’s been sporting outfits for much of this time, shown here in a 1616 painting by Denis Van Alsloot of the Ommegang religious procession.

In the collection of the V&A Museum London

The early statue was replaced by today’s bronze version in 1620. He received his first official costume in 1698. The oldest in the collection today is this knight’s costume given by King Louis XV of France in 1747 as an apology after his soldiers stole the statue (replica on display at the museum).

Since 1756 the statue has had his own official dresser to coordinate his wardrobe. Today he receives 20-30 new costumes a year ranging from famous people, ethnic and historic costumes, jobs and leisure activities, even dracula! The outfit changes daily according to a published schedule, which is posted on the railings around the fountain.

Since a theft in 1965, the original statue lives at the Brussels City Museum, while a replica is on display. A single ticket is good for the museum and the garderobe. 

Note: On special occasions, the statue is connected to a keg and actually pees beer available passersby!