Neptune Fountain

Neptune Fountain. Cosa vedere e come visitare

During my recent visit to Rome, I had the opportunity to admire the Fontana del Nettuno, a baroque masterpiece located at the northern end of Piazza Navona. Commissioned by Pope Gregory XIII in 1574, this fountain was the first of three designed by Giacomo Della Porta to embellish the square.

The fountain is truly impressive, composed of a large travertine shell-shaped basin, with the majestic statue of Neptune, the Roman god of the sea, at its center. Neptune is depicted standing on a chariot pulled by two seahorses, wielding a trident as he battles a fearsome octopus. On either side of the chariot, two nereids, graceful sea nymphs, hold the reins of the seahorses.

It is interesting to note that the fountain underwent many interruptions and modifications before being completed in 1878. In 1873, the Municipality of Rome held a competition to add two sculptural groups, created by the talented Antonio Della Bitta and Gregorio Zappalà. These new elements have added further beauty to an icon of Rome.

The Fontana del Nettuno is undoubtedly one of the main attractions of Piazza Navona. It is fascinating to observe how it is often used as a backdrop for events and celebrations, confirming its status as an iconic symbol of the eternal city. Its history and symbolic significance make it even more captivating, representing the power of nature and the grandeur of Roman history.