The Eternal City possesses a wealth of history, art, and culture. Among its many historic landmarks, Piazza Navona stands out as one of the most attractive public squares in the world. At the heart of this busy piazza lies its magnificent glory: the Rome Piazza Navona fountain.
These fountains are not just architectural marvels but also storytellers of Rome’s rich past. In this blog, we will learn about the captivating stories behind the Rome Piazza Navona fountain, with special attention on the fountain of the four rivers in Piazza Navona, and discover why these masterpieces continue to attract many tourists from around the world.
The History of Piazza Navona
Before we go into the Rome Piazza Navona fountain, it’s important to understand the history of the square itself. Piazza Navona was developed on the site of the ancient Stadium of Domitian, constructed in 86 AD. This stadium was used for competitions and could have up to 30,000 spectators. Over time, the stadium fell into disrepair, and the area was changed into a public square during the Renaissance.
The square’s elongated shape, reminiscent of the original stadium, makes it different from Rome’s piazzas. Today, Piazza Navona of the square is one of the most vibrant squares for activities, filled with artists, street performers, and cafes. But the true stars of the square are its fountains, which have become symbols of Baroque artistry and Roman grandeur.
The Fountains of Piazza Navona: A Trio of Masterpieces
Piazza Navona is home to three beautiful fountains, each with its own story and importance. These fountains are:
- Fountain of the Four Rivers (Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi)
- Fountain of Neptune (Fontana del Nettuno)
- Fountain of the Moor (Fontana del Moro)
While all three fountains are remarkable, the Fountain of the Four Rivers is undoubtedly the most popular and breathtaking. Let’s check each of these fountains in detail.
The Fountain of the Four Rivers: A Baroque Masterpiece
The Fountain of the Four Rivers is the most prominent in Rome, Piazza Navona. It is the showpiece of Piazza Navona and one of the most renowned creations of Gian Lorenzo Bernini, the maestro of Baroque sculpture. When Pope Innocent X commissioned this fountain in 1651, he could not have imagined that it would showcase the genius and imagination of Bernini.
The Design and Symbolism
The Four Rivers Fountain Piazza Navona, known as the Fountain of the Four Rivers, represents four major rivers from four continents: the Nile (Africa), the Ganges (Asia), the Danube (Europe), and the Rio de la Plata (Americas). A larger-than-life statue, surrounded by flora and fauna native to their respective regions, decorates each river. The fountain’s centrepiece is a towering Egyptian obelisk, symbolising the triumph of the Catholic Church over the pagan world.
- The Nile: A cloth covers the statue, symbolizing the then unknown secrecy of its origin.
- The Ganges: The Ganges carries an oar, which reflects its navigability.
- The Danube: The Danube touches the papal coat of arms, indicating Europe's affinity with the Church.
- The Río de la Plata: The Río de la Plata is represented with coins, reflecting the richness of the New World.
The Rivalry with Borromini
One of the most intriguing stories surrounding the Rome Piazza Navona fountain is the alleged rivalry between Bernini and Francesco Borromini, another prominent architect of the time. Legend has it that Bernini designed the statue of the Río de la Plata with its arm raised in a gesture of fear as if shielding itself from Borromini’s nearby church, Sant’Agnese in Agone. Yet, the myth has been debunked by historians, as the fountain was finished before the church's facade. Still, the story adds a touch of drama to this already intriguing masterpiece.
The Fountain of Neptune: A Symbol of Power
Situated at the north end of Piazza Navona, the Fountain of Neptune is yet another impressive feature of the square. Initially constructed in 1576 by Giacomo della Porta, the fountain initially lacked statues. Only in the 19th century did the fountain get sculptures, including the massive Neptune fighting an octopus.
The Fountain of Neptune serves as the perfect complement to the Fountain Piazza Navona Rome, offering a balanced beauty within the square. Its lively composition and subtle details render it a sight worth seeing for those visiting Piazza Navona.
The Fountain of the Moor: A Touch of Exoticism
On the southern edge of Piazza Navona is the Fountain of the Moor, another work by Giacomo della Porta. The central figure of the fountain, a Moor struggling with a dolphin, was introduced by Bernini in the 17th century. The exotic theme and whimsical character of this fountain contribute to the special appeal of the square.
The Legacy of Piazza Navona’s Fountains
The Rome Piazza Navona fountain and its counterparts are more than just decorative elements; they portray a reflection of Rome's artistic and cultural heritage. Each fountain tells a story, whether it’s the global symbolism of the Fountain of the Four Rivers, the power contained by the Fountain of Neptune, or the exotic allure of the Fountain of the Moor.
These fountains have inspired hundreds of artists, authors, and travelers across the centuries. They remain a source of awe and admiration and attract millions of tourists to Piazza Navona annually.
Tips for Visiting Piazza Navona and Its Fountains
If you’re planning a trip to Rome, a visit to Piazza Navona is a must. Here are some tips to make the most of your experience:
Timing: Visit early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid the crowds and enjoy the Rome Piazza Navona fountain in a more serene setting.
Guided Tours: Take a guided tour to discover more about the symbolism and history of Rome's Piazza Navona fountain.
Nearby Sites: Don't forget to visit other nearby sites, including the Pantheon and Campo de Fiori, both of which are within walking distance of Piazza Navona.
Local Food: Stop at one of the cafes in the square and enjoy classic Roman fare while taking in the view of the Rome Piazza Navona fountain.
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