Belgian heritage on display in The Cov: Manneken Pis statue from MainStrasse wins Authenti-CITY award, showcasing a piece of Belgian history.

Manneken Pis Statue Adds Quirky Charm to Covington, Kentucky

The small town of Covington, Kentucky, has a surprising addition to its cultural landscape – a replica of the famous Manneken Pis statue from Brussels, Belgium. Located at 706 Main St., next to Kaleidoscope Stained Glass, the statue is a classic example of Covington's quirky charm.

The Manneken Pis statue, depicting a young lad urinating, is not just a random addition to the town. It was brought to Covington by the Covington Belgian-American group, as part of the National Economic Development Week ceremony. Andrew Bettinghaus and John "Mick" Robbins are the individuals responsible for this unique addition.

The statue in Covington, Kentucky, is a version of the original statue in Brussels, Belgium. However, unlike its counterpart, the Covington statue is often dressed in seasonal attire, adding a touch of colour and festivity to the town.

The origin stories of the Covington Manneken Pis statue are as varied as the attire it wears. One story involves a wealthy merchant whose son was found while emptying his bladder. Another story tells of a young boy who urinated on enemy fuses during a siege, averting disaster. Yet another story involves a witch's curse upon a lad who urinated on her door. Despite the lack of specific details about the origin stories of the Covington statue, it symbolizes the rebellious spirit of Brussels.

Patrick Duffy, the Covington Business Retention and Expansion Manager, stated that the Manneken Pis statue adds to Covington's unique character. "It's a symbol of Belgian history and a testament to the strong ties between our communities," he said.

Last week, the City of Covington awarded the 2025 Authenti-CITY awards, recognising the Manneken Pis statue as a significant part of Covington's cultural identity. The statue's presence in MainStrasse Village is not explained by a deep historical connection between Germany and Belgium, but it serves as a reminder of the town's rich history and its embrace of diversity.

In conclusion, the Manneken Pis statue in Covington, Kentucky, is more than just a statue. It's a symbol, a testament to the town's unique character, and a reminder of the strong ties between communities. Whether dressed in festive attire or standing alone, it continues to be a source of fascination and delight for visitors and locals alike.

Belgian heritage on display in The Cov: Manneken Pis statue from MainStrasse wins Authenti-CITY award, showcasing a piece of Belgian history.