Fontana dello Zodiaco, Monumental fountain in Tacito Square, Terni, Italy.
Fontana dello Zodiaco is a monumental fountain with a circular structure in Tacito Square consisting of a granite base, porphyry crown, and central steel mast. The fountain is surrounded by water basins made from Carrara marble and features colored mosaic panels throughout its design.
The fountain originated from a 1932 national competition seeking a monument that would represent the industrial character and hydraulic power of Terni in the 20th century. Its creation reflected the era's ideals by blending modern materials with the city's economic identity.
The lower basin displays mosaics showing the twelve zodiac signs, created by artist Corrado Cagli in 1934 using colored glass tiles from Venice. This representation connects ancient astronomical tradition with early 20th-century craftsmanship visible to visitors today.
A restoration project in 2020 and 2021 renewed the water system and lighting after years of deterioration. The fountain sits on a public square that is accessible daily, with water typically flowing during warmer months.
The fountain combines industrial materials like steel with traditional elements such as porphyry and Carrara marble, reflecting Terni's heritage as a manufacturing center. This unexpected pairing of raw material and craftsmanship makes the monument a subtle reflection of local history.
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