Fontana dell'Acqua Paola

Interesting facts

1. 1

   The fountain’s water source, the Aqua Traiana, was originally constructed by Emperor Trajan in 109 AD.

2. 2

   The inscription on the attic commemorates Pope Paul V for restoring the ancient aqueduct to bring water to the Trastevere and Borgo neighborhoods.

3. 3

   The fountain was featured in the opening scene of the 2013 Academy Award-winning film 'The Great Beauty'.

4. 4

   Six columns used in the facade were taken specifically from the Constantinian facade of St. Peter’s Basilica during its reconstruction.

5. 5

   The fountain is officially known as a 'mostra', a term used for the terminal building of an aqueduct that showcases its water flow.

Overview

The Fontana dell'Acqua Paola, locally known as 'Il Fontanone', serves as the monumental terminal fountain for the Acqua Paola aqueduct, which was restored by Pope Paul V in 1612. Designed by Flaminio Ponzio and Giovanni Fontana, the structure incorporates marble columns salvaged from the demolished ancient Basilica of Old St. Peter’s. It sits at the top of the Janiculum Hill, offering an expansive view over the Trastevere district and the center of Rome. The fountain features five granite basins fed by three large central arches and two smaller lateral ones. The architectural style served as a direct prototype for the design of the Trevi Fountain. It stands as one of the earliest examples of monumental baroque fountain design in the city. The fountain is illuminated at night, highlighting its travertine and white marble facade against the city skyline.

Insider tips

• Walk up the hill from the Trastevere neighborhood for the best approach.

• Visit during the golden hour to capture the reflection of the sun on the water basins.

• Combine your visit with a walk through the nearby Orto Botanico di Roma.