Rome is a city bursting with architectural wonders, and many of these masterpieces were crafted by the renowned artist, Gian Lorenzo Bernini. While many tourists flock to the iconic Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi in Piazza Navona, the Fontana del Tritone, or Triton Fountain, often gets overlooked. But don’t let its lesser-known status fool you! This fountain holds a unique charm and a fascinating history just waiting to be uncovered.
Where Can You Find This Hidden Gem?
The Fontana del Tritone graces the heart of Piazza Barberini, a square easily accessible by taking the metro line A to the Barberini station. While you’re in the area, don’t miss the nearby Fontana delle Api (Fountain of the Bees), another exquisite creation by Bernini. This smaller fountain, just a short stroll away on Via Veneto, is a testament to Bernini’s artistic versatility.
Piazza Barberini or Piazza del Tritone?
Though officially known as Piazza Barberini, the locals have a special fondness for the Fontana del Tritone and affectionately refer to the square as “Piazza del Tritone” (Triton Square). It’s a testament to the fountain’s captivating charm and its ability to leave a lasting impression on the hearts of Romans.
A Closer Look at the Triton Fountain
The Fontana del Tritone, crafted entirely from travertine marble, is a beautiful homage to the Roman heritage. Travertine, a stone deeply embedded in the city’s history, complements the marine theme of the fountain. Bernini masterfully depicts the sea god Triton rising powerfully from an open bivalve shell, his imposing figure supported by four intricately intertwined dolphins. The water, seemingly blown out of the shell, cascades into the main basin below, creating a mesmerizing spectacle.
The Story Behind the Fountain’s Creation
The Triton Fountain was commissioned by Pope Urban VIII Barberini, with two primary motivations. The first was to enhance the aesthetic beauty of the square, where his Palazzo overlooked. The second was to serve the public good by improving the city’s water distribution network.
A Tale of Two Fountains: The Fontana delle Api
Bernini strategically designed the Fontana del Tritone and the Fontana delle Api, ensuring that the larger fountain would generously supply the smaller one with water. The Fontana delle Api then gracefully redistributes this water through three delicate spouts. However, the limited water flow from the fountain became a source of amusement for the citizens, who drew parallels between the meager water supply and the government’s practices of demanding high taxes while offering insufficient services.
A Controversial Restoration
Over time, even Bernini’s masterpieces require care and attention. The Fontana del Tritone faced a period of neglect, leading to its condition deteriorating significantly. By 1932, the fountain was sadly obscured by a thick layer of limescale, algae, and moss, reaching a staggering 12 centimeters in depth. When the City Council decided to restore the fountain, many citizens, no longer able to recognize the Triton, launched a campaign demanding the preservation of the “old” fountain.
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