The fountain represents the two rivers of the province: the Secchia, depicted as a male figure, and the Panaro, depicted as a female figure.
The bronze figures were cast in the Fonderia Artistica Ferdinando Marinelli in Florence.
The project was commissioned by the municipal administration under the direction of the podestà of Modena during the 1930s.
It is one of the most prominent works by Giuseppe Graziosi, who was a native of the Modena province.
The base of the fountain is constructed from Veronese red marble, chosen for its durability and aesthetic contrast with the bronze.
The Fontana dei due fiumi is a significant 20th-century sculpture located in Largo Giuseppe Garibaldi in central Modena. Inaugurated in 1938, the fountain was designed by the sculptor Giuseppe Graziosi to represent the Secchia and Panaro rivers that define the local geography. It consists of a large basin featuring bronze statues that symbolize these two waterways, which historically provided water to the city. The artwork is characterized by the monumental scale of the figures typical of the era's artistic style. It stands as a central element of the urban landscape, marking a major intersection in the city. The fountain is currently well-maintained and serves as a primary landmark for navigation within Modena.
From the sidewalk edge on the north side of the Largo, allowing you to capture both the bronze figures and the surrounding historic buildings in a single frame.
Visit during the early morning or late afternoon to capture the best light on the bronze sculptures without harsh overhead shadows.
It is an open-air site accessible at any time, making it convenient to visit while walking between the historic center and the train station.
Combine your visit with a walk along the nearby pedestrian-friendly Corso Canalgrande.
Do not attempt to climb or sit on the edge of the fountain basin, as it is a protected monument and prone to slippery surfaces.
