Fountain of the Naiads, Public fountain in Piazza della Repubblica, Rome, Italy
The fountain features four marble sculptures representing water nymphs surrounding a central figure, with water flowing from multiple points into a circular basin.
Between 1870 and 1888, the fountain structure was built, and sculptor Mario Rutelli added the water nymph sculptures, completing the work in 1901.
The fountain represents Greek mythology water nymphs known as naiads, each symbolizing different water bodies such as rivers, lakes, oceans, and springs.
The fountain remains a functional water source, offering drinking water to visitors through designated spouts around its perimeter.
The water nymph sculptures generated public controversy upon their initial display due to their artistic representation of the female form.
Location: Roma Capitale
Creator: Mario Rutelli
GPS coordinates: 41.90272,12.49625
Latest update: May 10, 2025 23:34
Italian historic fountains demonstrate five centuries of craftsmanship in sculpture, hydraulic engineering, and urban design. From the 15th to the 19th century, Italian artisans shaped marble, bronze, and stone to create works combining practicality and artistic expression. These fountains tell stories from classical mythology, such as Neptune and marine deities, or from the Bible, like Moses drawing water from the rock. They also celebrate the political power of great families and the identity of Italian cities. In Rome, the Trevi Fountain extends 86 feet (26 meters) high with baroque sculptures, while Bernini's Fountain of the Four Rivers symbolizes continents on Piazza Navona. In Florence, Neptune sits above the Piazza della Signoria, recalling the Medici family's maritime ambitions. The gardens of Villa d'Este in Tivoli feature 51 fountains spread across multiple terraces, showcasing Renaissance hydraulic mastery. These works reveal how water has shaped Italy’s architecture and urban life, from papal Rome to squares in Palermo and Siena.
Rome combines ancient monuments with modern city squares. The city preserves Roman Empire remains alongside Renaissance palaces and Baroque fountains. The Vatican contains major art collections and religious sites. The neighborhoods display Roman traditions and Italian culture.
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