Nymphaeum of Alexander Severus, Monumental fountain in Regio V Esquiliae, Italy
The Nymphaeum of Alexander Severus is a large stone fountain structure in Rome featuring multiple water basins connected through a system of cascades. The building sits between Via Tiburtina and Via Labicana and demonstrates the complex architecture of Roman public water displays.
Emperor Alexander Severus commissioned this monumental fountain structure during his reign. The building dates to the early 3rd century and belongs to a series of public water works constructed during that period.
The structure displays elements dedicated to nymphs, water deities from Roman mythology, through sculptures and architectural details. You can still see traces of these decorative features today, showing how Romans expressed their relationship with water through art.
The site preserves its original foundation structures and water channels, offering insight into Roman engineering techniques. Visiting is best done in dry conditions to clearly see the structures and channel systems.
The site tapped water from the Aqua Julia aqueduct, one of the city's major water distribution systems. This water supply solution reveals how advanced Roman infrastructure was to feed such ornamental fountains.
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