Bulgarian kuker costume for the symbol of Brussels - Manneken Pis
On September 26, the ceremony for awarding the Bulgarian costume to the famous symbol of Brussels - Manneken Pis took place. The Bulgarian ambassador to Belgium, Plamen Bonchev, presented the specially made clothes to the local government in the town hall building in the Belgian capital. The sculpture of Mannequin Peace put on a cook costume. The first Bulgarian costume was made in 2007 on the occasion of our country joining the European Union. Among those present at the event was the designer of the costume - Anelia Antova, who graduated from "Fashion" at the National Art Academy. The Embassy of the Republic of Bulgaria in Brussels, the State Cultural Institute and the National Academy of Arts worked together to implement the project.
The tradition of dressing the miniature bronze Menneken Pis statue dates back to the 17th century. In the past, the authorities in Brussels or the governors-general donated costumes for certain celebrations. After World War II, a "boy's" wardrobe grew by an average of five to fifteen items a year. These garments are an integral part of the heritage of the city of Brussels. Each item is inventoried and preserved as a work of art. The costume is kept in the city museum 'Musée de la Ville Maison du Roi'. At the end of 2019, it counted 1,039 Manneken Pis costumes allow associations, corporations, clubs and countries with a positive, peaceful and democratic image to promote their heritage and history. He gives his image to all who respect human rights and freedom of expression.