Fountain of Neptune, Neoclassical fountain in Plaza de Cánovas del Castillo, Spain.
Description
The Fountain of Neptune is a neoclassical marble structure in Plaza de Cánovas del Castillo where Neptune stands with a trident in a chariot pulled by two mythological creatures with horse heads and fish tails. The figures are intricately carved and form an impressive composition at the center of the square.
History
King Charles III commissioned architect Ventura Rodriguez in 1780 to design this fountain as part of a plan to transform Madrid into a European capital. The sculptor Juan Pascual de Mena died in 1784 during construction, and other artists completed the work.
Culture
The fountain serves as a gathering place for Atletico Madrid supporters celebrating their team's victories and championship wins. Over time, it has become a symbol of the city's sporting passion and local pride.
Practical
The fountain sits in the center of a roundabout near Banco de España and Sevilla metro stations, with multiple bus connections serving the area. The location is easy to reach and offers clear views from all directions.
Did you know?
The marble sculpture was completed by multiple artists after sculptor Juan Pascual de Mena died during its creation. This collaborative effort across different artists gives the work a layered history, with various hands contributing to different sections.
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide. Discover all places nearby (Madrid).
Museo del Prado
224 m
Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum
109 m
Hotel Palace
141 m
Paseo del Prado
129 m
Mandarin Oriental Ritz, Madrid
121 m
Basilica of Jesus de Medinaceli
179 m
Monument to the Fallen for Spain
167 m
Fountain of Apollo
219 m
Villanueva building
207 m
Palace of Villahermosa
98 m
Saint Sebastian
119 m
Statue of Velázquez
210 m
Miguel de Cervantes
205 m
Statua di agora
141 m
Palacio de Hielo y del Automóvil
172 m
Monument to Eugenio d'Ors Rovira, Madrid
191 m
Cedro del Líbano del Museo del Prado, Madrid
185 m
Edificio ICO
225 m
Convento de Jesús, Madrid
172 mUn pintor para El Prado
214 mFuentes neoclásicas en el Paseo del Prado
145 mDimitar Dimov
204 mFuente-estanque Paseo del Prado
232 mBusto de Hans Heinrich von Thyssen-Bornemisza
153 mMonument
191 mCommemorative plaque, memorial
234 mSan Antonio del Prado
234 mMemorial
238 mDiscover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes