Overview of Famous Fountains in Rome
Almost every square in Rome and Vatican City is adorned with a beautiful fountain at its center. Like many other elements of Rome, these fountains are masterpieces of art and several are tourist attractions that you won’t want to miss on your visit to Italy.
Plan your vacation to Rome, Italy with the following list of Rome’s most famous and lovely fountains in mind to ensure you experience some of the city’s most celebrated public attractions, including the world-famous Trevi Fountain (don’t forget to make a wish!) and the fountains at Saint Peter’s Square.
Trevi Fountain
The most famous fountain in Italy is the Trevi Fountain, a Baroque masterpiece completed in 1762. At all hours, Fontana di Trevi is frequented by tourists who visit to throw coins into its waters, believing this practice will ensure their return to Rome.
Other than the cost of a coin or two, it costs nothing to see the Trevi Fountain, which ranks among Rome’s Top Free Attractions. The fountain has also appeared as a backdrop for many popular movies set in Rome.
After a thorough cleaning at the end of 2015, the fountain is open and restored to its dazzling white beauty, so be sure to see the Trevi Fountain in all its glory during your visit to Rome.
Bernini Fountains
One of the most prolific artists in Rome was Gianlorenzo Bernini, active from 1622 through 1680. In addition to creating marvelous marble works showcased in the Borghese Gallery, Bernini sculpted several significant fountains throughout the city, the most renowned being the Four Rivers Fountain located in Piazza Navona.
Other notable Bernini fountains can be found across the city, such as the Fontana del Tritone in Piazza Barberini and the Fontana della Barcaccia, located just below the Spanish Steps.
Fontana delle Naiadi
Dating from the 19th to early 20th centuries, the Fontana delle Naiadi, or the Fountain of the Nymphs, is perhaps Rome’s most alluring fountain.
This large fountain, located in Piazza della Repubblica, features a central pool with Glaucus, the Water God, surrounded by four naiads (nymphs) representing the four types of water: rivers, oceans, lakes, and underground aquifers.
Fontana delle Tartarughe
A quaint fountain in a hidden square, the “Turtle Fountain” or Fontana delle Tartarughe, is worth searching for. Designed by Giacomo della Porta, who also designed the fountains at either end of Piazza Navona, this charming fountain features four male figures supporting dolphins while assisting tiny turtles into the small upper pool.
Situated in Piazza Mattei in the Jewish Ghetto neighborhood, the fountain provides a delightful diversion, with the surrounding area also excellent for a leisurely stroll.
Saint Peter’s Square Fountains
Although located in Vatican City, which is technically a separate entity from Rome, Saint Peter’s Square often features on itineraries for visitors to Rome.
The square has two fountains: one erected in the early 17th century and the second added by Bernini during the mid-17th century. While the fountains may not be the primary attractions in the square, they certainly merit a visit!
This article has been updated and edited by Martha Bakerjian.
