Fontana dei Catecumeni, Public drinking fountain in Piazza della Madonna dei Monti, Rome, Italy.
The Fontana dei Catecumeni is a cast iron drinking fountain in Piazza della Madonna dei Monti with a curved metal spout delivering fresh water. The structure stands about 3 feet tall and has a simple, functional design typical of fountains found throughout the city.
The fountain was built in the 1870s as part of the nasoni network, an expansion of public water sources across Rome during the late 1800s. This project brought modern water infrastructure to neighborhoods that previously lacked reliable access to fresh water.
The fountain represents Rome's commitment to public water access, continuing the ancient Roman tradition of providing fresh water through urban infrastructure.
The fountain is easy to locate at Piazza della Madonna dei Monti and water flows continuously throughout the day. To drink, insert a finger into the top opening to redirect water through a smaller side hole.
The water originates from mountain springs and travels through a system of ancient pipes that have been in use for centuries. This direct connection to historical aqueducts makes the fountain a functioning piece of Rome's past.
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