Fontana della terrina, Public fountain at Chiesa Nuova, Rome, Italy
Fontana della Terrina is a public fountain in front of Chiesa Nuova that features an oval basin with a travertine-covered edge resembling a large soup pot. The structure sits along one of Rome's main streets and continues to serve as a water source for people passing through the area.
The fountain was designed by Giacomo Della Porta in 1595 and was originally built at Campo de' Fiori, where it stood for more than 300 years. In 1924, it was moved to its current location in front of Chiesa Nuova to make room for urban changes in the city.
The name comes from its shape, which resembles a soup tureen and was instantly recognizable to Romans in the 1500s. When visiting today, you can see how everyday objects inspired public works designed for practical use by the community.
You will find the fountain at a busy location, right along Corso Vittorio Emanuele II where many people walk past daily. The water is available year-round, but be aware that this area sees steady foot traffic from tourists and locals alike.
An inscription from the 1600s on the fountain reads 'Love God and do not fail, do good and let them speak', reflecting the values of that time. These words are a rare reminder of the moral messages that public works once carried to the community.
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