Gronigen: The Gasunie Building

Gronigen might not be on everyone's tourist itinary when "doing Europe" but it has interesting features for the accidental tourist like myself. I was there at a conference but managed to have time to stroll around and have a look at the place.

The city is a mixture of old and new, and especially seems to embrace some interesting modern architerture as evidenced by the Gasunie Building - the headquarters of Gasunie, the

Dutch natural gas infrastructure and transportation company.

Also know as the "monkey cliff" this building dominates its surroundings. It is 89 meters high and strikingly impressive. Designed by architects Ton Alberts and Max van Huut it is an example of what is sometimes referred to as "organic architecture".

The Dutch regard it as one of their country's most beautiful buildings. If in Gronigen I would recommend you have a look and decide for yourself.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gasunie_Building

http://toerisme.groningen.nl/en/zien-doen-beleven-2/architectuur/moderne-architectuur

Brussels: The Manneken Pis turns Irish

I normally don't repeat myself quite so quickly but here is the Manneken Pis yet again. I was in Brussels on St Patrick's day and the little peeing statue was doing his bit to join in the festivities. The Grande Place and surrounding area was full of Irish families wearing large Irish headwear adorned in green, white and orange.

I don't know how many national costumes the Manneken Pis has, but if in Brussels on any particular National day then I suggest wandering the short distance from the Grande Place to
see if the little fellow is joining in the fun.



http://www.ilotsacre.be/images/virtualvisit/manneken_pis.htm

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mannequin_pis

Brussels: The Manneken Pis plays Lacrosse

Once more in my blog I shall pay a visit to my favourite little statue of a peeing boy - The Manneken Pis. On my last visit to Brussels he was dressed ready for a game of Lacrosse. Well, at least it beats being a uroligist, which is what he was dressed up as during a previous visit.

If in Brussels make sure you wander down from the Grande Place to see if this little chap is dressed up for the day (most days he pees unadorned and uninhibitied). He tends to wear the costumes between 09:00 and 16:00. It's quirky and fun.

http://www.ilotsacre.be/images/virtualvisit/manneken_pis.htm

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mannequin_pis