Fountain of the Eagle, Renaissance fountain in Vatican Gardens, Vatican City.
The Fountain of the Eagle is a Renaissance fountain in the Vatican Gardens built on an octagonal base decorated with dragons and eagle sculptures across its multiple tiers. The structure rises through several levels with carefully designed basins that channel water in cascading stages.
The fountain was commissioned in the early 1600s under Pope Paul V and redesigned by Carlo Maderno. During this renovation, one of the lower basins was replaced while the original granite base remained untouched.
The fountain's name comes from the eagles of the Borghese family displayed on its tiers. These symbols reflect papal authority and the family's connection to its redesign.
The fountain is only accessible through guided tours of the Vatican Gardens, which require advance bookings. Visitors should wear appropriate clothing and be prepared for varied terrain and walking paths.
The fountain's water supply comes from Lake Bracciano through the restored Trajan Aqueduct. This ancient water system was specifically revived to feed this and other fountains throughout the garden.
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