"Mannequin Pis" Brussels by Ramonq

There is a common joke that Brussels is the most boring city in Europe. I think Brussels does not deserve this malicious jibe. Maybe it's because Brussels is one of those European Union city full of faceless Eurocrats who pass these ridiculous laws that virtually take over every facet of European life, from the standardised alcohol content of pilsen beer to the official definition of Gouda cheese. The laws that have been passed from Brussels aim to make Europe orderly and conform to certain standards. I do agree that when one drives around the newer parts of Brussels, one can see lots of characterless post-modern buildings that house the bean-counters and bureaucrats, all lined up along the cold bleak avenues. But that's just one section of the city. The old section of Brussels is where Brussels becomes interesting and is full of character.

Where else in the world would you have a small old statue of a cheeky imp piddling in a street corner as its most famous landmark? Well in Brussels of course! The Mannequine Pis, is the quintessential Brussels symbol. Yes, the impressive Grand Place is definitely grand, but there many grand places in Belgium such as those in Ghent and Antwerp, so Brussels' main square is no way unique. But that little statue has captured the hearts and bladders of many travellers. The story behind the Mannequin Pis is still a mystery. The most common one was that the statue was built in honour of a boy who saved Brussels from total conflagration by pissing on the fire that was starting to spread. Another one says that this is the statue of the long lost son of a wealthy nobleman who was later found in that very spot answering to the call of nature. Brussels has transformed this nude statue into a veritable fashion icon by dressing it up in a variety of costumes during special occasions. Millions of tourists pose in front of this statue for photographs. I really think it's just the Belgians cruel ploy by taking the pis out of these tourists. Who says that Belgians don't have as sense of humour? Boring, no way!

Brussels is where the Teutonic and Latin cultures mix and perhaps this is why the city was chosen as one of the three European Union capital cities. It has two major ethnic groups, the Wallons who speak French and the Flemish, who speak Dutch. At the Grand Place, you'll notice the two architectural styles that seem to blend into a delightful mix that can only be described as Belgian. The buildings may look Flemish, but there's a lot of ornamental touches that the Latins have penchant for. It's an awesome mix and this magnificent place made me feel that I'm in the centre of classical Europe.

Most of the areas of interest in Brussels are within the pentagonal-shaped ring road. Not only will you see quite a few palaces and old cathedrals, the old city centre is where many of the great restaurants, cafes and bars are located. Brussels may be lacking in famous landmarks, but it has a great lifestyle especially for those who love to wine and dine. Food and alcoholic beverages seem to be foremost in my mind when I think of Brussels. And many of the restaurants have Old World ambience. Belgium is also known for its unique local beers, and the are numerous pubs where you can enjoy these good drops. And don't mention the luscious chocolates and pastries, I'm getting jungry just thinking about it.

Like many European cities, Brussels began as a fortress where a castle was build on the island of Saint-Gorik in the middle of River Zenne back in middle ages. Brussels was then a feudal society of working-class guilds ruled by Dukes and Duchesses. Because the city lies in the heart of Western Europe, Brussels came under different rulers: the Austrians under the Hapsburgs, the French under Charles V and Louis XIV and the last foreign ruler under the Dutch William I who was ousted by the Brussels citizens in the 1830's. When Belgium became an independent monarchy under King Leopold I, Brussels was chosen as its capital city because this was where the Wallons and the Flemish merge. City walls were transformed into wide avenues, and grand civic buildings were built during the late 19th century. Brussels got a big boost when the city was chosen as the EU capital city in the late 20th century.

Brussels is an important European city. Not only is the European Union based here, its northern suburb of Evere plays host to the NATO headquarters. Such a huge influx of decision makers and their hangers-on have given Brussels an economic advantage over the other Belgian cities. It's an affluent modern city that doesn't rely much on holiday tourists but more on the busines and convention types. Perhaps this is the main reason why the city has developed a reputation for being efficient and boring. When in Brussels do as they do, just pretend you're a U.N delegate and you might see the city in a different light.

• Pros:Food glorious food
• Cons:Expensive, caters for business travellers
• In a nutshell:A Grand place, well in some parts.