Paep Thoon Statue, Leuven

The Paep Thoon Statue commemorates the legendary city jester, known for his witty jests and playful antics that left a lasting impression on the town's folklore. Born Anthoon vander Phalizen, Paep Thoon earned his moniker from his father's profession as a pastor and became famous for his humorous pranks, despite initially working as an organist and carillonneur. Banished from Leuven due to his mischievous behavior, Paep Thoon returned in a memorable fashion, riding into town with mud-covered feet from Liège, cleverly circumventing his exile.

Erected in 1961 on a bridge in the Brusselsestraat, the statue captures Paep Thoon's whimsical spirit, depicting him in the garb of a traditional jester with a mischievous grin, as he is fondly remembered for his playful antics and witty jests that endeared him to the townsfolk.

While tales of Paep Thoon's escapades abound, one intriguing legend surrounds his burial request, where he purportedly wished to be interred standing in the church, with his mouth positioned under a gargoyle to satisfy his eternal thirst. Although this request remains unconfirmed, it adds to the mystique surrounding the enigmatic figure of Paep Thoon, whose legacy continues to captivate the imagination of Leuven's residents and visitors alike.