Fontana del Nettuno, Piazza del Popolo, Classical fountain in Piazza del Popolo, Italy.
The Fontana del Nettuno is a classical fountain in Piazza del Popolo featuring a central Neptune figure battling an octopus, surrounded by eight groups of marine creatures and water features. This travertine structure sits at the western end of the square near the intersection of Via del Corso and Via di Ripetta.
The fountain was designed and built by Giuseppe Valadier and Giovanni Ceccarini in 1823 as part of the Piazza del Popolo redevelopment. Water for it comes from the Acqua Vergine Nuovo aqueduct, which terminates at this basin.
Neptune and his two Triton companions represent Roman mythology and classical traditions that still capture the imagination of visitors walking through the square.
The fountain sits in a busy square accessible from multiple sides with good views from various angles. Early morning or late afternoon offers the best photography opportunities when crowds are lighter.
This fountain is one of three water features that have shaped the square since the 19th century and together they form a balanced composition. Its location at the western edge marks the entry point to one of Rome's grandest walkways.
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