The Fontana dell'Acqua Paola also known as Il Fontanone ("The big fountain") is a monumental fountain located on the Janiculum Hill, near the church of San Pietro in Montorio, in Rome, Italy. It was built in 1612 to mark the end of the Acqua Paola aqueduct, restored by Pope Paul V, and took its name from him. It was the first major fountain on the right bank of the River Tiber. The Fontana dell'Acqua Paola was inspired by the popularity of the Fontana dell'Acqua Felice, built in 1585-88 by Pope Sixtus V. Pope Paul V decided to rebuild and extend the ruined Acqua Traiana aqueduct built by the Emperor Trajan in order to create a source of clean drinking water for the residents of the Janiculum Hill, who were forced to take their water from brackish springs or from the polluted Tiber. He raised funds for his project in part by imposing a tax upon wine, which caused complaints among some residents. The funding from this tax and other sources allowed him to purchase the rights to the water of a spring near Lake Bracciano, not far from Rome, as the source for the fountain. The fountain was designed by Giovanni Fontana, whose brother had worked on the Fontana dell'Acqua Felice, and Flaminio Ponzio. They used white marble from the nearby ruins of the Roman Temple of Minerva in the Forum of Nerva, and constructed a massive gateway of five arches for the arrival of the water. At the top of the fountain are the papal tiara and keys, above the Borghese family coat of arms of an eagle and a dragon, supported by angels. The inscription praises Pope Paul in poetic terms for bringing water to the residents of the district. Unlike the Fontana dell'Acqua Felice, which had an abundance of statues on biblical themes, the theme of the Fontana dell'Acqua Paola was water. Five abundant streams poured through the arches into five marble basins. In 1690 Carlo Fontana designed an additional semicircular pool for the water which overflowed from the marble basins. Marble posts were put in place to keep coachmen from watering their animals in the fountain, but the pool was tempting to many local residents, who bathed in the water. An ordinance was issued in 1707 forbidding residents to bathe in the fountain. The form of the fountain served as an inspiration for the later Trevi Fountain.
Fontana dell'Acqua Paola Tours and Tickets
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The Fontana dell'Acqua Paola also known as Il Fontanone ("The big fountain") is a monumental fountain located on the Janiculum Hill, near the church of San Pietro in Montorio, in Rome, Italy. It was built in 1612 to mark the end of the Acqua Paola aqueduct, restored by Pope Paul V, and took its name from him. It was the first major fountain on the right bank of the River Tiber. The Fontana dell'Acqua Paola was inspired by the popularity of the Fontana dell'Acqua Felice, built in 1585-88 by Pope Sixtus V. Pope Paul V decided to rebuild and extend the ruined Acqua Traiana aqueduct built by the Emperor Trajan in order to create a source of clean drinking water for the residents of the Janiculum Hill, who were forced to take their water from brackish springs or from the polluted Tiber. He raised funds for his project in part by imposing a tax upon wine, which caused complaints among some residents. The funding from this tax and other sources allowed him to purchase the rights to the water of a spring near Lake Bracciano, not far from Rome, as the source for the fountain. The fountain was designed by Giovanni Fontana, whose brother had worked on the Fontana dell'Acqua Felice, and Flaminio Ponzio. They used white marble from the nearby ruins of the Roman Temple of Minerva in the Forum of Nerva, and constructed a massive gateway of five arches for the arrival of the water. At the top of the fountain are the papal tiara and keys, above the Borghese family coat of arms of an eagle and a dragon, supported by angels. The inscription praises Pope Paul in poetic terms for bringing water to the residents of the district. Unlike the Fontana dell'Acqua Felice, which had an abundance of statues on biblical themes, the theme of the Fontana dell'Acqua Paola was water. Five abundant streams poured through the arches into five marble basins. In 1690 Carlo Fontana designed an additional semicircular pool for the water which overflowed from the marble basins. Marble posts were put in place to keep coachmen from watering their animals in the fountain, but the pool was tempting to many local residents, who bathed in the water. An ordinance was issued in 1707 forbidding residents to bathe in the fountain. The form of the fountain served as an inspiration for the later Trevi Fountain.
Overview
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- The view from Fontana dell'Acqua Paola stretches across the historic center of Rome to the Roman Forum, so be sure to bring your camera.
- Walking and Segway tours of Trastevere offer little shade; comfortable shoes, a hat, and sunscreen are recommended.
- Remember that it is illegal to bathe in Rome's historic fountains.
- The fountain and scenic terrace are accessible to wheelchairs and strollers.
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Accessibility for wheels
- Can have severe slope, cobblestones, and/or gravel
- Bathroom: Too narrow for wheelchair
- Hilly area
- Not accessible for wheelchair and Electric scooters
Access for Visually Impaired
- Service animals permitted
Access for Seniors
- Physical difficulty level - 4
As you stand at the Fontana dell’Acqua Paola in Rome, the evening sun casts a golden hue over the massive structure. The sound of cascading water echoes through the air, creating a soothing melody that envelops you in tranquility.
As you approach the fountain, you feel the cool mist on your face, a refreshing sensation on a warm summer day. The scent of blooming flowers and damp stone wafts towards you, engulfing your senses in a symphony of nature’s perfume.
You reach out to touch the smooth marble statues that adorn the fountain, feeling the intricate details of each sculpted figure - the graceful curves of a woman’s form, the muscular contours of a man’s body. The cold touch of the stone sends shivers down your spine, adding to the sense of awe and wonder that fills your heart.
As you listen closely, you can hear the subtle gurgling of water as it flows from one tier to the next, creating a rhythmic pattern that is both calming and mesmerizing. You close your eyes and let the sound wash over you, transporting you to a place of pure serenity and inner peace.
At that moment, a gentle breeze dances across your skin, carrying with it the whispers of ancient stories and forgotten legends. You feel a profound connection to the history and culture of this place, as if the spirits of the past are reaching out to touch your soul.
As you open your eyes, the fading light of the sun paints the fountain in a warm, rosy glow, casting a spell of enchantment over the scene before you. You take a deep breath, inhaling the magic of this moment, knowing that you have experienced something truly special at the Fontana dell’Acqua Paola in Rome.
The Fontana dell’Acqua Paola in Rome does not provide audio descriptive guides or have specific sensory-friendly hours. However, visitors with visual or sensory disabilities can still enjoy the fountain and its surroundings. The area is open to the public and can be accessed by wheelchair users as well. If you require specific accommodations, it is recommended to contact the local tourism office or the site directly for more information.
The Fontana dell’Acqua Paola, also known as the Fontanone del Gianicolo, is a stunning monument located on the Janiculum Hill in Rome. This impressive fountain was built in the 17th century and is one of the most iconic landmarks in the city.
Local artist, Sofia Bianchi, is captivated by the Fontana dell’Acqua Paola’s grandeur and elegance. She often visits the fountain to sketch its intricate details and intricate design. "The Fontanone del Gianicolo is a masterpiece of Baroque art," she says. "The way the water cascades down the marble structure is truly mesmerizing. It’s a peaceful and inspiring place to create art."
Local writer, Marco De Rossi, finds solace in the tranquil atmosphere surrounding the fountain. "There’s something magical about the Fontana dell’Acqua Paola," he reflects. "I love sitting by the fountain, listening to the sound of the water and watching the sunlight dance on its surface. It’s a place where I can escape the hustle and bustle of the city and find peace."
Many locals and tourists alike gather at the Fontana dell’Acqua Paola to enjoy breathtaking views of Rome. The fountain overlooks the historic city center, offering a panoramic vista of St. Peter’s Basilica and the Vatican. Visitors can often be found admiring the sunset from this vantage point, capturing the moment on camera, or simply taking in the beauty of the Eternal City.
Overall, the Fontana dell’Acqua Paola is not just a monumental structure, but a place of inspiration, relaxation, and contemplation for both locals and visitors. Its charm lies not only in its architectural beauty but also in the emotions and experiences it evokes in those who take the time to appreciate it.
### Fontana dell’Acqua Paola, Rome: Directions and Transportation
#### Directions:
- Address: Via Garibaldi, 00153 Rome, Italy
- GPS Coordinates: 41.88107, 12.47227
#### Transportation Options:
1. Public Transport: You can take buses like 44, 75, or 280 to reach Fontana dell’Acqua Paola. The closest metro stop is Circo Massimo, and from there, you can take a bus or walk to the fountain.
2. Taxi: Taxis are readily available in Rome, and you can easily get a cab to reach Fontana dell’Acqua Paola.
3. Rental Cars: If you prefer driving, you can rent a car and reach the fountain. There are parking options nearby as well.
#### Accessibility:
- Fontana dell’Acqua Paola is wheelchair accessible, with ramps and paths for easy navigation.
- Public transportation options also have facilities for people with disabilities.
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### Fontana dell’Acqua Paola, Rome: Ticket Booking and Discounts
#### Booking Tickets:
- Tickets: Entry to Fontana dell’Acqua Paola is free of charge.
- Guided Tours: Although not necessary, you might consider booking a guided tour for a comprehensive understanding of the fountain’s history and significance.
#### Discounts:
- As the entry is free, there are no specific discounts available.
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### Fontana dell’Acqua Paola, Rome: Local Amenities
#### Parking:
- There are parking spaces available near Fontana dell’Acqua Paola, both for regular cars and for those with disabilities.
#### Restrooms:
- Restrooms are available in the vicinity of the fountain for visitors.
#### Dining Options:
- Nearby cafes and restaurants offer a variety of dining options catering to different dietary needs, including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free choices.
Enjoy your visit to Fontana dell’Acqua Paola in Rome!