Unlike most cities, fountains in Rome are far from plain and utilitarian. Rome differs from anywhere else on earth because just as the city itself is a work of art, the fountains that grace the streets are wonderful displays of artistic talent.



While the Trevi fountain is unquestionably the one that is most well known, it is far from being the only fountain that calls to visitors to enjoy the artistic merit on display.

A great example of a fountain that calls out to be seen is the Fountain of Triton, otherwise known as the Fontana del Tritone. This is another example of the artistic genius of Bernini who designed the fountain in 1642, taking full advantage of the beauty of the Baroque design. The figure that grabs your attention is a male version of a mermaid (a merman) who is sitting on a huge clamshell as watchful dolphins frolic about.

Another example of Bernini's artistic vision is the first fountain he installed in Rome, which is located near the Spanish Steps. Named the Barcaccia, this clever design shows a ship at sea in a half sunken state and it simultaneously is a perfect study of the use of Baroque design in an outdoor setting.

The sea creature theme that Bernini utilizes so well in his fountains continues in the Fountain of the Moor, otherwise known as Fontana del Moro. This is a great fountain to sit down and enjoy with a beverage as you explore the Piazza Navona. Here, we see the mighty god of the sea Neptune being attended to by four Tritons who spew water for the fountain as happy citizens of the sea playfully interact below.

A fountain that uses very similar ideas as the Fountain of the Moor but it reflects the style of Renaissance artwork is the Fountain of Neptune which you can also find in the Piazza Navona.

A fountain that is unique because it was designed not by Bernini but by Francesco Bizzaccheri, is the Fontana dei Tritoni, although the influence of Bernini is clear. You can find this delightful artwork between the Temple of Vesta and the Temple of Male Fortune. The sculpture that was made in 1715 shows two mighty Tritons as they stoop on a gathering of rocks and hold a basin. The fountain's waters flow out of that basin.

But of all of the wonderful fountains in Rome, the Fontana di Trevi or the Trevi Fountain is far and away the most famous example of Roman fountain art. The history of this ancient fountain dates back to the early days of the Roman Empire. But it has been lovingly restored and cared for, undergoing a significant reconstruction between 1732 and 1751 under the direction of Pope Clement XII.

The Trevi Fountain is the largest fountain in Rome at 85 feet high and 65 feet wide and its size is very much part of why it is so beautiful. You can find this not-to-be missed fountain behind the Palace of the Dukes of Poli. Here we again get to see Neptune but this time riding in a chariot made of a clamshell being drawn by two mighty horses. Tritons again are at the bidding of their master, as are the gods of Health and Wealth who are in attendance.

The well known tradition and superstition of throwing coins into the fountain for luck was born at the Trevi Fountain. Be sure to throw your three coins in as legend tells us that this offering will cause Neptune to bless you with a return visit to Rome one day. Don't worry about the coins as Rome wisely harvests them to benefit the charities of the city. It is amusing to note that the encouragement of this tradition not only adds to the culture of the city but amounts to pretty clever marketing as well.

The Trevi Fountain is said to have been designed by Nicola Salvi, not Bernini as you might suspect. Nonetheless, the influence of Bernini is so evident that perhaps it was a joint project. The water for the fountain comes from the Aqua Vergine and there is a legend that goes with that name. The legend is that a virgin drew water from that aqueduct to offer to tired and thirsty Roman soldiers.

When you visit Rome, along with your many other sites you will want to see, taking in one or many of these gorgeous fountains is a must because Rome's fountains are so much of what makes the city a true work of art in its own right.