Standing five metres tall, the original statue of Saint Michael, specially moved for the exhibition, guides the visitor through some rare and previously unseen rooms. Paintings, objects, engravings and photographs illustrate the square’s eventful history, its various functions and uses and its transformations from the 12th century to today. The restoration workshops are presented to the public for the first time.

A true behind-the-scenes discovery of the most beautiful square in the world!

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In 1619, the authorities of the City of Brussels decided to remodel a fountain called the “Manneken-Pis”. They commissioned a new sculpture of the Manneken-Pis from a renowned sculptor, Jérôme Duquesnoy. Stolen on numerous occasions and always recovered, the original statue of Manneken-Pis has been on display at the Museum of the City of Brussels since 1966. 

To mark this anniversary, the Brussels City Museum has organised several events: 

- An extensive treasure hunt is being organised from 29 November 2019 to 5 January 2020 (available via a geolocalisation app) along the Winter Wonders trail. Discover the treasures with family and friends, and win a lovely gift with the effigy of the famous symbol of Brussels - the guest of honour:  www.plaisirsdhiver.be

- A drawing project in cooperation with the schools of the City of Brussels: every primary school in the City of Brussels can submit a drawing or prototype for a new costume for the ketje (little boy). The winning costume will be designed and presented to the Manneken-Pis on 7 May 2020. An exhibition will also take place to showcase all the projects put forward by the various schools.

- Souvenir item “400 years Manneken-Pis”: The Royal Belgian Mint and the Royal Netherlands Mint have officially issued the new Belgian 2.5 euro coin with the inscription "400 years Manneken Pis". The coin is available at www.herdenkingsmunten.bea 

On the first Sunday of every month admission to the museum is free.