Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi

It’s an absolutely beautiful spot to visit once in Rome! Highly recommend to visit evening hours as it gives just completely different vibe than the sunlight! So beautiful fountain, just amazing masterpiece sculptures of Roman art! Just be careful with the vendors, they will push you till the edge to buy their stuff! Beautiful place loved it ♥️

stunning fountain in Piazza Navona. Designed by Bernini, it beautifully represents four major rivers. The intricate sculptures and historical significance make it a must-see

The **Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi** (Fountain of the Four Rivers) is a breathtaking Baroque masterpiece located at the center of Piazza Navona in Rome. Designed by the renowned sculptor and architect **Gian Lorenzo Bernini**, it was commissioned by Pope Innocent X Pamphilj and completed between 1648 and 1651. This fountain is not only a stunning work of art but also a symbol of papal power and Baroque theatricality. The fountain features four colossal river gods, each representing one of the major rivers of the continents known at the time: the **Danube** (Europe), **Nile** (Africa), **Ganges** (Asia), and **Río de la Plata** (Americas). Each figure is surrounded by flora, fauna, and symbols associated with its respective region. For instance, the Nile's veiled head signifies the mystery surrounding its source at the time, while the Río de la Plata sits atop coins, symbolizing the wealth of the Americas. These figures are set against a dramatic travertine rock formation, which supports an ancient Egyptian obelisk topped with a dove carrying an olive branch—the emblem of the Pamphilj family. The fountain’s design is a stunning fusion of sculpture, architecture, and water. The interplay of cascading water with the dynamic poses of the river gods creates a sense of movement and life, embodying the drama characteristic of Baroque art. The obelisk at its center connects Rome’s ancient past with its 17th-century present, further emphasizing Bernini’s genius in blending history with innovation. While its beauty is undeniable, the fountain also sparked controversy during its construction due to its high cost, which was partially funded by a tax on bread. Despite this, it remains one of Rome’s most celebrated landmarks and a must-see for visitors to Piazza Navona. Its grandeur continues to captivate those who encounter it, making it a timeless testament to Bernini’s artistic brilliance and Rome’s rich cultural heritage.

The Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi (Fountain of the Four Rivers) is a stunning Baroque masterpiece located in the center of Piazza Navona in Rome. Designed by Gian Lorenzo Bernini in 1651, it is one of the most celebrated fountains in the world, combining sculpture, architecture, and water to dramatic effect. Key Features of the Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi 1. Historical Context: • The fountain was commissioned by Pope Innocent X as part of his grand project to transform Piazza Navona into a symbol of the papal family’s power and influence. • Bernini won the commission despite earlier falling out of favor with the Pope, reportedly because of his ingenious design and the influence of powerful allies. 2. Design and Symbolism: • The fountain represents the four great rivers of the known continents during the 17th century, symbolizing the global reach of the Catholic Church. • Each river is personified by a monumental figure and is surrounded by animals and flora native to its region: • Danube (Europe): Represents the closest river to Rome; depicted as touching the papal coat of arms. • Nile (Africa): Shown with a veiled head, symbolizing the river’s mysterious source. • Ganges (Asia): Represented with a long oar, signifying the river’s navigability. • Rio de la Plata (America): Portrayed in a dramatic pose, startled by a snake, symbolizing the New World’s untamed nature and riches. 3. Central Obelisk: • Rising from the center of the fountain is an ancient Egyptian obelisk, originally from the Roman Circus of Maxentius. • The obelisk is topped with the dove and olive branch, symbols of the Pamphili family (Pope Innocent X’s lineage). 4. Artistic Features: • Bernini created a dynamic interplay between the figures, water, and the towering obelisk. • The fountain appears weightless, with the obelisk supported by the four figures on a hollow rock formation, creating the illusion of floating. 5. Cultural Significance: • The Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi reflects Baroque art’s theatricality, blending naturalism and drama to engage the viewer emotionally. • It showcases Bernini’s unparalleled skill in combining sculpture and architecture. 6. Modern Appeal: • Today, the fountain is a centerpiece of Piazza Navona, surrounded by lively cafes, restaurants, and street performers. • It continues to draw admiration for its intricate details and powerful symbolism. The Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi is not just a fountain but a profound expression of Rome’s cultural, religious, and artistic heritage, standing as one of the city’s most iconic landmarks.

This is Bernini’s masterpiece. I come here every time I visit Rome. They were restoring all the fountains in piazza Navona in November and it was heartwarming to see the workers work with such love and care to detail.

The Fiumi Fountain, or Fountain of the Four Rivers, is a stunning landmark located in Piazza Navona, Rome. Designed by the famous artist Gian Lorenzo Bernini, it was completed in 1651. The fountain features four statues representing major rivers from four continents: the Nile, the Danube, the Ganges, and the Rio de la Plata. The fountain is beautiful and intricately detailed, making it a popular spot for both tourists and locals. It’s a great place to take photos, enjoy the surrounding architecture, and soak in the vibrant atmosphere of Piazza Navona. The fountain is especially lovely in the evening when it is lit up, creating a magical ambiance. If you're in Rome, the Fiumi Fountain is definitely worth a visit.

Went in Aug 2024, closed for restoration but you can peak through some openings in the fences. Was told that this in preparation for the Vatican Jubilee starting 24th Dec 2024. Hopefully will complete by then

Sadly, all the fountains this one included, that I visited were shut down for maintenance, and there were big gates up with a thing so you can see in. The photo I got was off the sign. Was really disappointed after a decent walk to get here.