Rome has many breathtaking sights to behold, from the Vatican to the Colosseum to the Pantheon. But there is no scene more iconic to Rome, and Italy, than the stunning fountains found there. These particular fountains draw tourists from all over the world, are even more beautiful in person and can only be fully appreciated first hand.
If you’re headed to Italy, and you find yourself in Rome, these three fountains are not to be missed. The sheer power, scale, and detail found in these iconic fountains have made them famous across the world. Make time to visit all three, and you can easily say you’ve seen the best fountains the city of Rome has to offer.
The Trevi Fountain
Easily the most well known fountain in the world, the Trevi fountain has long been a gem among tourist attractions in Rome. Its history stretches back to the 1600s and its creation spanned over one hundred years! Its size is enough to amaze you, but the intricate design and symbology will really leave you speechless.
It’s said you can hear this fountain from surrounding streets, which makes its position unmistakable. The fountain itself depicts Neptune, and all the details relate to the sea and water. There is also much superstition surrounding this fountain – many will tell of what throwing in a coin will do, all in varying versions. Most say that throwing in a coin means you will one day return to Rome, others say that by throwing in three, in a certain ritual, will offer good luck.
The best part of the Trevi is not only seeing it by day, but also experiencing it by night. It is well lit after dark, which makes it appear to be an entirely different fountain, but equally stunning.
The Fountain of the Four Rivers
Located in one of Rome’s most popular piazzas, the Navona Square, it is equally epic as its surroundings. This fountain was created by the famous artist Bernini, who was known for his sculpting work. It has much symbology, its name and figures representing the four rivers found on the continents known at that time. Surrounding them are various creatures, from ominous serpents and monsters, to lions and dolphins, and in the center is an Egyptian obelisk.
The Fountain of Neptune
Considerably smaller in scale compared to the aforementioned, this fountain has just as much beauty. In fact, it is one in a series of three, the others located in opposite ends of the piazza. The center figure is the god Neptune, fighting off an octopus, while other figures, including cherubs on horseback, surround him. This fountain is found in the same famous piazza as the Fountain of the Four Rivers, and the Fountain of Moor. This particular fountain was completed in the late 1800s, in an attempt to compliment and balance the other two fountains in the same piazza. It shares a theme with the Fountain of Moor, featuring Neptune in mid-fight.
About the Author: This article was written by Sara Woods from Mega.co.uk. Sara is an avid traveller who currently lives in Czech Republic. Her website features regularly updated vacation discounts for Thomson Holidays – don’t forget to check them out before you travel to Rome.