Fountain of Neptune, Bologna, Renaissance fountain in Piazza del Nettuno, Bologna, Italy
The central bronze figure of Neptune rises from a marble base decorated with four water-spouting nereids and cherubs holding dolphins.
Cardinal Charles Borromeo commissioned the fountain in 1563 to honor Pope Pius IV, leading to the demolition of existing structures.
The trident held by Neptune in the fountain later became the inspiration for the Maserati automobile company logo.
The fountain stands adjacent to Piazza Maggiore, serving as a central meeting point and orientation landmark for visitors exploring Bologna.
Four Latin inscriptions on the marble tank detail the fountain's financial supporters and political powers involved in its construction.
Location: Bologna
Inception: 16 century
Architects: Bartolomeo Ammannati
Creator: Giambologna
Accessibility: Wheelchair inaccessible
Address: Piazza del Nettuno - Bologna 40124 Bologna
Phone: +390516583111
Website: http://nettuno.comune.bologna.it
GPS coordinates: 44.49422,11.34265
Latest update: October 27, 2025 12:32
Bologna's central squares and streets present numerous photography opportunities. The medieval towers, Renaissance buildings, and covered walkways create distinct backgrounds. The city's architecture includes the Asinelli Tower, Neptune Fountain, and Santo Stefano church complex. Parks and gardens provide natural settings, while the university district shows academic heritage.
San Petronio Basilica
106 m
Piazza Maggiore
64 m
Palazzo d'Accursio
38 m
Palazzo Re Enzo
102 m
Palazzo del Podestà
28 m
Biblioteca Salaborsa
114 m
Palazzo dei Banchi
133 m
Porta Magna - San Petronio
112 m
Palazzo dei Notai
85 m
Sala Borsa
45 m
Farnese room
70 m
Torre dell'Orologio
76 m
Apollino by Antonio Canova
74 m
Fontana Vecchia
93 m
Bologna City Art Collections
48 m
Lambertini tower
72 m
Palazzo D' Accursio comunale
33 m
Palazzo Ronzani
126 m
Palazzina Majani, Bologna
120 m
Torre degli Scappi
104 m
Sala Urbana
74 m
Torre dell'Arengo
28 m
Torre dei Ramponi
101 m
Torre dei Lapi
135 m
Voltone del Podestà
49 m
Formelle del Portico del Podestà
35 m
Portici di via Indipendenza
87 m
Palazzo del Capitano del Popolo e Torre dei Lambertini
92 mReviews
Visited this place? Tap the stars to rate it and share your experience / photos with the community! Try now! You can cancel it anytime.
Discover 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