Rome, the Eternal City, is a treasure trove of history and beauty, with over 2,000 fountains adorning its streets.
These stunning water features, ranging from grand monumental displays to quaint drinking fountains, offer a glimpse into the city’s rich past and architectural prowess.
Water was revered by ancient Romans, and many of these fountains were designed not just for aesthetics but also to quench the public’s thirst.
Among the most famous are the iconic Trevi Fountain and the mesmerizing Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi.
Each fountain tells a story, blending art and history in ways that captivate visitors. Whether you’re tossing a coin into the Trevi or admiring the intricate designs at Piazza Navona, these fountains provide a magical backdrop for unforgettable memories in Rome.
1. Trevi Fountain (Fontana di Trevi)
Trevi Fountain, one of the most iconic sights in Rome, showcases stunning Baroque artistry. It features a sizable pool underneath intricate statues, symbolizing the taming of the waters.
Designed by Nicola Salvi in 1762, the fountain’s elaborate travertine stone craftsmanship captivates visitors.
Travelers toss coins into its waters, ensuring their return to the Eternal City. Surrounding narrow alleys lead to the small piazza, creating a dramatic reveal of this magnificent spectacle, especially enchanting during nighttime when illuminated.
2. Fountain of the Four Rivers (Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi)
The Fountain of the Four Rivers, located in Piazza Navona, impresses with its grandeur and artistic design.
Designed by Giovanni Lorenzo Bernini in 1651, this Baroque masterpiece features a tall Egyptian obelisk at its center, surrounded by four allegorical figures representing the major rivers: the Nile, the Ganges, the Danube, and the Rio de la Plata.
Each figure embodies the continents they represent, adding symbolic depth to the fountain. Visitors marvel at the intricate sculptures and the refreshing spray of water, making it a must-see while exploring Rome’s historic charm.
3. The Fountain of Neptune (Fontana del Nettuno)
The Fountain of Neptune, constructed in 1823 by Giovanni Ceccarini, stands prominently in Piazza del Popolo.
This impressive fountain features Neptune, the god of the sea, brandishing a trident. Flanked by two tritons, the fountain represents the power and majesty of water.
Its breathtaking design, combined with the tranquil flow of water, captivates visitors. Nestled at the base of the Pincio Hill, it’s a stunning tribute to Rome’s rich aquatic heritage. The Fountain of Neptune truly enhances the charm of this vibrant square.
4. Fountain of the Naiads (Fontana delle Naiadi)
Fountain of the Naiads, situated in Piazza della Repubblica, is a stunning example of late 19th-century artistry. It features four graceful naiads representing water’s various forms: lakes, rivers, oceans, and springs.
Designed by the architect Mario Rutelli in 1901, this fountain showcases intricate sculptures complemented by dynamic water flow. Surrounding the fountain are beautifully landscaped gardens, enhancing its visual appeal.
Visitors often stop to admire the detailed craftsmanship and enjoy the refreshing mist during warm Roman days, making it a lively focal point in the square.
5. Triton Fountain (Fontana del Tritone)
Triton Fountain, designed by Gian Lorenzo Bernini in 1643, stands proudly in Piazza Barberini. It features a striking depiction of Triton, the sea god, emerging dramatically from a shell.
Four dolphins, their tails intertwined, support the structure, adding a sense of movement and life. The fountain’s intricate details and baroque style attract visitors, who come to admire both the artistry and the elegant flow of water cascading from the conch Triton blows into.
This remarkable landmark reflects the rich heritage of Roman fountain design.
6. Fountain of the Boat (Fontana della Barcaccia)
The Fountain of the Boat, or Fontana della Barcaccia, captures attention at the base of the Spanish Steps.
Designed by Pietro Bernini in the early 17th century, it features a charming, half-sunken boat design, symbolizing a historic flood of the Tiber River.
Intricate carvings of dragons and dolphins adorn the basin, enhancing its artistic appeal. This fountain not only serves as a stunning photo backdrop but also embodies the blending of Roman history and Baroque artistry, making it a must-see for visitors exploring Rome.
7. Fountain of the Frogs (Fontana delle Rane)
Fountains in Rome often surprise visitors, and the Fountain of the Frogs is no exception. Situated in the charming Coppede District, this delightful fountain features playful frogs perched atop a bowl, surrounded by whimsical architecture.
It captures the imagination with its fairytale-like charm. Notable for its small size, it’s an intimate spot worth visiting while exploring this unique area.
The fountain’s intricate design and serene atmosphere offer a refreshing pause amidst the district’s artistic allure.
8. Fountain of the Pantheon (Fontana del Pantheon)
Fountain of the Pantheon, located in front of the iconic Pantheon, features the papal shield of Pope Clement XI, emphasizing its historical importance.
Its elegant design complements the ancient architecture, making it a popular gathering spot. Visitors enjoy the refreshing sound of cascading water as they take in the majestic view of the Pantheon.
This fountain, with its tranquil ambiance and artistic allure, serves as a perfect backdrop for photographs, adding to the charm of one of Rome’s most visited sites.
9. The Turtle Fountain (Fontana delle Tartarughe)
The Turtle Fountain, or Fontana delle Tartarughe, is a delightful gem located in Piazza Mattei. Built between 1580 and 1588 by architect Giacomo della Porta, it features charming bronze turtles added in the late 17th century, designed to draw attention.
The fountain’s intimate atmosphere captures visitors’ hearts, with legends linking it to a duke’s romantic folly.
Its design showcases elegant sculptures and a tranquil setting, making it a beloved spot for locals and tourists alike, especially those exploring the nearby Jewish Ghetto.
10. Fontana dell’Acqua Paola
Fontana dell’Acqua Paola, also known as Il Fontanone, is an impressive spectacle perched on Janiculum Hill. Constructed in 1612, it commemorates the restoration of the Aqua Paola aqueduct, providing clean water to the Tiber’s western side.
Designed by Giovanni Fontana and Flaminio Ponzio, the fountain features five majestic arches pouring water into a grand basin.
Crafted from marble sourced from the Temple of Minerva, its elegant structure is adorned with hidden dragons and eagles, paying homage to the Borghese family’s legacy, making it a must-visit site in Rome.
