Fountain, Renaissance fountain in Via del Babuino, Rome, Italy.
The fountain on Via del Babuino displays a reclining marble figure holding an amphora, with water pouring into a rectangular basin below. The work sits along a historic street lined with buildings and galleries near the city center.
Construction took place in 1581 when the Acqua Vergine aqueduct underwent restoration to supply the area with fresh water. This building phase was part of broader efforts to upgrade Rome's water systems.
This marble figure forms part of Rome's Talking Statues, a tradition where residents left written messages to comment on daily events. The spot still draws people who want to engage with this centuries-old practice of civic communication.
The fountain operates year-round and sits in an accessible location within walking distance of public transit. The surrounding area tends to fill with foot traffic, especially during daylight hours.
Locals nicknamed the statue Babuino after noticing a resemblance to a baboon, even though it was meant to depict Silenus. The playful name stuck with the figure for centuries and even named the entire street.
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