Fontana Fraterna, Public fountain in Isernia, Italy.
The Fontana Fraterna is a public fountain in Isernia built as a loggia of compact limestone blocks from various periods. Its first three arches rest on round columns, the others on octagonal columns, with capitals of different shapes and twelve small hanging arches above, each with a distinct design.
The fountain was assembled in 1835 by the noble Isernian family Rampini, merging two earlier fountains: one near the cathedral atrium and one in Largo Concezione. In 1889 it was moved to via Marcelli, and after being severely damaged in the Allied bombing of 10 September 1943, it was faithfully rebuilt using recovered parts and returned to its original site, now Piazza Celestino V.
The fountain displays Roman architectural elements combined with columns from different periods, showing a local tradition that blends old and new materials. Visitors can observe how ancient stone pieces were incorporated into the later structure.
The fountain stands in Piazza Celestino V, the spot it originally occupied before being moved to via Marcelli in 1889 and returned after the 1943 bombing. It is in the city centre, near the church of the Concezione, and its six jets still run. Look for the twelve small hanging arches along the top, each with a different design.
A marble slab at the center features two dolphins and a flower, possibly originating from an ancient burial monument. This unusual detail gives the fountain a personal, historical depth.
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