Fountain of Bacchino

The Fountain of Bacchino is a Renaissance sculpture in the Boboli Gardens that depicts a small rider seated on a tortoise with water flowing through multiple openings in the stone structure. The composition merges sculpture and water features into a decorative whole that fits within the garden layout.

The fountain was created in 1560 by sculptor Valerio Cioli during a period of major artistic activity in Florence under Cosimo I de Medici. A working water system was added later, making it a complete Renaissance fountain installation.

The statue shows a court jester portrayed as Bacchus, reflecting how Renaissance artists liked to mix classical mythology with real people from their own time.

The fountain is located in the Boboli Gardens behind the Palazzo Pitti and is accessible during normal garden hours. Visitors should wear comfortable shoes as exploring the gardens involves walking along various paths and climbing stairs throughout the area.

The sculpture actually depicts Nano Morgante, a real court jester from Florence, transformed into mythological form rather than showing Bacchus himself. This blending of actual person and mythology reveals an unusual artistic choice that shows how Renaissance creators played with identity.

Location: Florence

Inception: 1560

Creator: Valerio Cioli

GPS coordinates: 43.76584,11.25105

Latest update: December 9, 2025 18:41