The Fountains of Piazza Navona: Legends and History in the Heart of Rome
In the heart of Rome, among the architectural wonders and timeless charm of the Eternal City, Piazza Navona stands out as one of the most iconic and evocative places.
Beyond its extraordinary Baroque beauty, this square hides fascinating stories linked to its famous fountains, authentic masterpieces that have enchanted Romans and visitors for centuries.
If you are staying at our hotel, located between the historic districts of Testaccio and Aventine, we invite you to discover the legends and history of these wonders.
The Fountain of the Four Rivers: Bernini’s Masterpiece
At the center of Piazza Navona stands the majestic Fountain of the Four Rivers, created in 1651 by the genius of Gian Lorenzo Bernini, commissioned by Pope Innocent X.
This extraordinary monument represents the four main rivers of the continents known at the time:
✔ The Nile for Africa
✔ The Ganges for Asia
✔ The Danube for Europe
✔ The Río de la Plata for the Americas
Each sculpted figure expresses unique dynamism, enriched by details that reveal hidden stories and symbolism.
According to popular legend, the statue of the Río de la Plata raises its arm as if to protect itself from the possible collapse of the nearby Church of Sant’Agnese in Agone, designed by Bernini’s rival, Francesco Borromini.
In reality, the fountain was completed before the church, making this anecdote more of a charming myth than a historical fact.
The Fountain of the Moor: Elegance and Power
To the south of the square, the Fountain of the Moor is another artistic gem. The original design is attributed to Giacomo della Porta, but it was Bernini who gave it its current appearance, adding the powerful central figure of a man with exotic features wrestling with a dolphin.
The Moor, with his proud gaze and dynamic posture, embodies:
✔ The power of water
✔ Man’s mastery over nature
This masterpiece showcases Bernini’s ability to infuse his sculptures with movement and emotion.
The Fountain of Neptune: The Charm of Antiquity
On the north side of the square, the Fountain of Neptune completes the trio of wonders.
Initially designed by Giacomo della Porta in 1574, it remained undecorated for over two centuries.
In the 19th century, Antonio Della Bitta and Gregorio Zappalà added the statue of Neptune fighting an octopus, giving the fountain its dramatic and imposing character.
This stunning addition transformed the Fountain of Neptune into a symbol of strength and mythology.
An Experience Not to Be Missed
Piazza Navona is more than just a place to visit: it is an open-air museum where art, history, and legend intertwine in a timeless narrative.
After exploring this Roman marvel, you can relax in the comfort of our hotel, immersed in the authentic atmosphere of Testaccio and Aventine, where:
✔ History
✔ Tradition
✔ Exquisite cuisine
… come together in a truly unforgettable experience.
Book Your Stay and Discover Rome’s Hidden Stories
Experiencing Rome means discovering its hidden stories, and the fountains of Piazza Navona tell some of the most fascinating ones.
We look forward to accompanying you on this extraordinary journey!
Photo credits: TripAdvisor