Rome’s bustling streets and majestic architecture captivate the hearts of many travellers who visit the city. However, beyond Rome’s main attractions, like the famous Roman temple of the Pantheon, and the awe-inspiring history of the Vatican City, Italy’s capital hosts several iconic fountains, which could be considered works of art. From the famous Trevi Fountain, with its immense cascading waters, to the Four Rivers Fountain, inspired by four river gods, to the smaller fountains, hidden gems tucked away in small alleyways, Rome’s enchanting fountains are not to be missed.

The meaning behind the fountains

As well as showcasing Rome’s rich history of art, these fountains also served multiple purposes in the past, acting as essential water sources when at-home plumbing was not widespread. At the same time, they pay tribute to famous figures. Make sure to follow our handy guide to learn more about the historic fountains of the Eternal City:

Fontana di Trevi: Rome’s largest and most iconic fountain

The Trevi Fountain is undoubtedly the capital’s most famous fountain, and with good reason: its water source dates back to 19BC, making it one of the oldest in Rome. It attracts thousands of visitors every day, making it an iconic spot in the city, and one that has featured in several films, from Roman Holiday (1953) to The Lizzie McGuire Movie (2003). Many travellers who visit this famous landmark take the opportunity to throw a coin into the water, which is said to guarantee that you will return to the city. The amount thrown into the fountain is said to reach around 3000€ a day, regularly collected and given directly to charity to fund food and social programs across the globe.

Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi: a work of art inspired by ancient history

Perhaps the second most famous fountain in Rome, Italy is the Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi, or Four Rivers Fountain, as it is known in English. Located in Piazza Navona, this fountain was designed by Gian Lorenzo Bernini to represent the four major rivers of the four continents known at the time: the Nile, Ganges, Danube and Rio de la Plata. Each of these rivers is symbolised by the sculpture of a river god, positioned around a magnificent Egyptian obelisk at the centre of the fountain, an impressive feature that is thought to have originated from the Serapeum, built in 80AD.

Fontana delle Tartarughe: Aa gem in the historic centre

The Fontana delle Tartarughe, or Turtle Fountain, is another Rome water fountain that is definitely worth a visit. This hidden gem can be found in Piazza Mattei, in the heart of the Jewish Ghetto of Rome. Part of its charm are its bronze turtles, which give rise to its name. It provides a serene retreat from the bustling streets of the rest of Rome, although is becoming increasingly popular due to its inclusion in a number of city walking tours. It also appears in a few scenes of the film The Talented Mr. Ripley and is the setting for Tiffany Parks’ book Midnight in the Piazza.

Fontana della Barcaccia: a recreation of a real-life historical event

Amongst Rome fountains, one of the most innovative of its time is the Fontana della Barcaccia (Boat Fountain), built in the Piazza di Spagna at the foot of the famous Spanish Steps. Its half-sunken boat structure, which sits lower than most other fountains in Rome, tells the legendary story of a small boat that was supposedly carried into the Piazza di Spagna in 1598 when the River Tiber flooded. The placement of the fountain just below street level is fascinating not only for its aesthetic appeal but also for utilizing the low water pressure from the aqueduct, making it ideal for depicting a half-sunken boat!

Fontana dell’Ovato a Tivoli: a Renaissance masterpiece just outside Rome

Fontana dell’Ovato, or the Fontana di Tivoli is located 30km outside of Rome, in the town of Tivoli. Nevertheless, it is worth the trip: placed within the grounds of Villa d’Este, an official UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the key symbols of the Italian Renaissance, the Tivoli Fountain Rome is a magnificent sight, surrounded by pillars adorned with greenery and featuring a beautiful cascade that falls elegantly into an expansive pool of water. It was one of the first fountains to be constructed in the gardens of the villa, and amongst the most famous.

Fontana dell'Acqua Paola: the best view overlooking all of Rome

Also known as the Fontanone del Gianicolo, or “The Big Fountain of Janiculum”, this impressive fountain is located on the Janiculum Hill. Built in the 17th century with the primary purpose of marking the end of the Acqua Paola aqueduct, this large Baroque-style fountain offers a spectacular view of Rome and is famous for its large basin and waterfalls. Constructed from white marble and granite, its large, curved façade is reminiscent of a Roman triumphal arch. It is worth both seeing the fountain and admiring its breathtaking view over Rome.

Fontana del Moro: A mythical sea creature battle

Also located in Piazza Navona, this fountain depicts a Moor wrestling with sea creatures as he stands inside a conch shell. Surrounding him are four Tritons, divided by heads that shoot out jets of water. Originally designed by Giacomo della Porta and later added by Bernini, this fountain has a dynamic visual history.

Fontana delle Naiadi: A symbolisation of water

One of the most significant fountains in Rome, it is located in Piazza della Repubblica and is known for its sculptures depicting the Naiads, the water nymphs. It was controversial at the time of its inauguration due to the nudity of the figures.

Triton Fountain: A depiction of a mighty sea god

Located in Piazza Barberini, this fountain is another Bernini masterpiece It depicts Triton, the sea god, blowing into a conch shell held up by the tails of four dolphins, a symbol of the Barberini family.

The symbolism of Rome’s fountains

These are just a few of the many exquisite fountains that adorn the streets of Rome and its surroundings, each contributing to the area’s timeless charm and allure. More than just pieces of architecture that symbolise Rome’s historical past, these beautiful artworks reflect an ever-changing present and ongoing connection to the future, their waters never standing still, constantly flowing through the very same aqueducts constructed thousands of years ago. Next time you find yourself in Rome, take a moment to pause and admire the beauty these fountains, as well as their significance in a city known for its eternal allure.

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