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  Brussels in bloom

BRUSSELS......The capital of Belgium and headquarters of both the EU and NATO has one of the most impressive central squares in Europe. The Grand Place is a 15th century market square. And, any direction from it is a stroll through cobblestone streets lined with cafes and unique boutiques.

There is one "must see" not far from the Grand Place, but everyone seems to agree it is a big disappointment. You have to see Manneken Pis, the statue of the little boy peeing. I don't know why the statue is so famous. It is located in a hidden corner of a building and the boy is so small. You would never notice him if it were not for the crowds of tourists at the corner taking his photo. Still, he is quite the attraction and is dressed up on so many occasions that I've yet to see him in his natural state. And, in another corner not far away, you can see Janneke Pis, a little girl peeing. All's fair in love and urine.

Of course, touring Brussles has many other really neat things to see. That list includes the Royal Palace and Cathedral of Saint Michel, parks with beautiful statues, antique shopping in the Sablon, examples of Art Nouveau and Art Deco, the homes of Magritte and Horta, the Atomium, the Basilica of Koekelberg, the Notre Dame Church of Laken, and the Royal Gardens. And, a big surprise in the back of the Museum of Art and History are statues that were somehow removed from Easter Island.

MARTIN

keep strolling Mannekin Pis
Copyright 2002 by Phillip Martin All rights reserved.