Fontana di piazzetta San Simeone, Renaissance fountain in Piazzetta San Simeone, Rome, Italy.
Fontana di piazzetta San Simeone is a Renaissance fountain with a circular basin and a smaller elevated cup supported by a central column. The column features four decorative masks from which water flows, creating a continuous water supply to the basin below.
The fountain was designed by Giacomo della Porta in 1589 and originally stood in Piazza Montanara near the Teatro di Marcello. It was relocated twice, first to Giardino degli Aranci in 1932 and then to its current location in 1973.
The fountain reflects Renaissance ideas about water as a central element of urban design in 16th century Rome. The four masks spouting water show how decorative and playful water features were favored in public spaces at that time.
The fountain sits on a circular walkway in Piazzetta San Simeone and serves as an orientation point while exploring the Rione V - Ponte neighborhood. It is easily reached on foot and offers a quiet spot among the narrow streets of this historic part of Rome.
The lower basin underwent renovation in 1829 and received newly carved emblems of the Conservatori and Priore dei Caporioni along its edges. These decorative additions remain visible today and show how important Roman institutions marked their authority through public works.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.