Miffy, the lovable fictional rabbit, is recognizable anywhere. It has left many wondering where she comes from. Well, it turns out she’s a Dutchie!
Not only is she featured in picture books, but she’s also become an icon for appearing in clothes, accessories, kitchen supplies, and stationery, as seen on the Miffyshop.
Dutch origins
Miffy was born in 1955 in Utrecht by her creator, Dick Bruna. Bruna was inspired when he spotted a rabbit hopping around a garden during a family seaside holiday.
He drew a rabbit to entertain his then one-year-old son, and this later became the innocent little rabbit beloved by many: Miffy! That makes her more than 60 years old today.
Since then, Miffy has become a worldwide sensation. She’s been featured in many books, two TV series, a blog, and even her own film. Go Miffy! 🐰
Miffy and Nijntje
In Dutch, Miffy is called Nijntje. This is a shortening of the word “konijntje“, which translates to “little bunny”. Can it get more adorable than that?
While this makes sense for people in the Netherlands, it made it hard to pronounce for other people who weren’t Dutch.
Olive Jones, the first English translator of the books, rebranded her as Miffy, making it easily pronounceable in all languages.
Miffy in Utrecht
A square in Utrecht has been officially named after her: Nijntje Pleintje, which translates to “Miffy Square”. Since the little rabbit was created there, it acts as a little reminder of Miffy’s birthplace.
The square is home to a statue of Miffy, which was made by Bruna’s son. 🐰
There is also a whole museum dedicated to her in the centre of Utrecht known as the Miffy Museum.
It contains 10 rooms, each representing a different mini-world inspired by Bruna’s books. Time to head over to Utrecht!
International sensation
Until recently, Miffy wasn’t causing such a ruckus outside of Europe, but now younger folks in North America are going crazy over the Dutch bunny. And we don’t blame them.
She’s on Instagram and TikTok, she’s on pillows and nail art — she’s basically a global superstar!
@eva.draws.sometimes Uhhh yeah… don’t mess with me, I’m all tatted up now 😤⛓️🥀🖤🕷️😎 #tattoo #firsttattoo #netherlands #artstudent #dutch #bunny #miffy #nijntje ♬ orijinal ses – sqplyn
After all, adults can also enjoy the cuteness of Miffy, even if she was made originally for kids. Of course! She’s adorable, and she reminds us of the simpler times of childhood. What’s not to love?
Did you know Miffy was originally Dutch? Tell us in the comments below!
Editor’s note: This article was originally published in January 2023 and was fully updated in October 2023 for your reading pleasure.
Feature Image: Wikimedia Commons/Alf van Beem/Public Domain
