Fontana dello Zodiaco, Monumental fountain in Tacito Square, Terni, Italy.
Fontana dello Zodiaco is a large fountain in Piazza Tacito in Terni, built with a granite base, a porphyry crown, and a central steel mast. The water basins around the structure are made from Carrara marble and decorated with colored mosaic panels.
The fountain came out of a national competition held in 1932, which sought a monument to represent the industrial character and water power of Terni. The result reflects the spirit of that era, combining modern materials with the city's economic identity.
The lower basin displays mosaics of the twelve zodiac signs, made by artist Corrado Cagli in 1934 using colored glass tiles from Venice. The imagery connects an old astronomical tradition with a style of craftsmanship typical of the early 20th century.
The fountain stands in a public square that is open every day, and water typically flows during the warmer months. A thorough restoration carried out in 2020 and 2021 renewed the water system and the lighting, so the fountain is now in good condition.
The central steel mast was made using steel produced in Terni's own steelworks, which were once among the largest in Italy. The material was not a random choice but a direct reference to the industry that shaped the city.
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