Fountains of St. Peter's Square

Two identical stone fountains stand on each side of the central obelisk, releasing continuous streams of water from their double basins.

Carlo Maderno constructed the first fountain in 1612, while Gian Lorenzo Bernini added the second identical structure between 1667 and 1677.

The fountains mark the traditional gathering place where pilgrims receive papal blessings and participate in religious ceremonies throughout the year.

Both water features operate without mechanical pumps, using natural gravity flow from the higher ground of the surrounding Vatican hills.

The Maderno fountain earned recognition in 1641 as the leading water feature across European cities due to its architectural innovation.

Architects: Gian Lorenzo Bernini

Creator: Carlo Maderno

Accessibility: Accesible en silla de ruedas

Made from material: travertine

GPS coordinates: 41.90147,12.45728

Latest update: May 12, 2025 11:32