Neptune Fountain

Neptune Fountain

Piazza Navona, with its stunning fountains and architecture, remains one of the must-visit locations for tourists exploring the historic center of Rome. 16th-century marble fountain depicting mythological cherubs & Neptune fighting with an octopus. The Neptune Fountain (Fontana del Nettuno) is another notable fountain located in Piazza Navona in Rome, Italy, alongside the Fountain of the Four Rivers. Here are key details about the Neptune Fountain:

Neptune Fountain (Fontana del Nettuno):

1. Location:
   • The Neptune Fountain is situated in the northern part of Piazza Navona, one of the most famous squares in Rome.
2. Architect:
   • The Neptune Fountain was designed by Giacomo della Porta, a Renaissance sculptor and architect, and it was completed in 1576.
3. Commissioned By:
   • Pope Gregory XIII commissioned the fountain as part of the overall beautification and remodeling of Piazza Navona.
4. Central Figure – Neptune:
   • The central figure of the fountain is Neptune, the Roman god of the sea, depicted holding a trident. The sculpture represents the power of the papal authority over the seas.
5. Dolphins and Nereids:
   • Surrounding Neptune are figures of dolphins and Nereids (sea nymphs), adding to the marine theme of the fountain.
6. Basin and Sculptures:
   • The fountain sits within a large basin adorned with sculptures of masks and marine creatures. The basin is made of white marble.
7. Restorations:
   • Like many historical structures in Rome, the Neptune Fountain has undergone several restorations over the centuries to preserve its artistic and architectural integrity.
8. Papal Emblems:
   • The fountain includes various papal emblems, reflecting the patronage and authority of the papacy.
9. Piazza Navona:
   • Piazza Navona itself is a popular and bustling square, known for its Baroque architecture and lively atmosphere. In addition to the Neptune Fountain, it also features the Fountain of the Four Rivers by Gian Lorenzo Bernini.
10. Tourist Attraction:
    • The Neptune Fountain is a significant tourist attraction, and visitors to Piazza Navona often admire both the Neptune Fountain and the nearby Fountain of the Four Rivers.