It was commissioned specifically for the 1898 Esposizione Generale Italiana held to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Statuto Albertino.
The fountain’s design features a series of cascading pools rather than a single vertical jet.
The twelve statues representing the months were sculpted by various artists, including Luigi Contratti and Giorgio Ceragioli.
It is one of the few surviving permanent structures from the original 1898 exhibition site.
The fountain is situated near the site of the former Medieval Village (Borgo Medievale).
The Fountain of the 12 Months (Fontana dei Dodici Mesi) is a Rococo-revival masterpiece located within Parco del Valentino. Designed by architect Carlo Ceppi for the 1898 General Exhibition, it features twelve statues representing the months of the year arranged around a central basin. The structure is characterized by its curving, theatrical design and white stone relief work. It serves as a historic decorative element in Turin’s largest urban park. The fountain underwent significant restoration in the early 21st century to preserve its elaborate sculptural details.
Stand at the center of the walkway facing the main basin to capture the semi-circular symmetry of the sculptures.
Visit on a weekday to avoid crowds from the surrounding park paths.
Bring a camera with a wide-angle lens to capture the entire curved perimeter of the basin.
Explore the surrounding Parco del Valentino gardens after viewing the fountain.
Do not expect the water to be running at full capacity during winter months due to freeze-thaw maintenance.
Water displays may be suspended during winter to prevent pipe damage.
Do not climb on the fountain structure or statues; remain on the surrounding pathways.
