The 99 spouts correspond to the number of villages traditionally cited as contributing to the city's foundation.
The alternating red and white stones are characteristic of the Abruzzo region's medieval masonry style.
The fountain incorporates an original 1272 inscription commemorating the city's founding.
It is built on the site of a pre-existing medieval river crossing at the base of the city walls.
The water used by the fountain is channeled from the nearby Aterno springs.
The Fontana delle 99 Cannelle is a 13th-century fountain complex constructed from alternating blocks of white and pink stone. It features 99 stone masks, or 'cannelle', which represent the original castles that joined to found the city of L'Aquila in 1272. Designed by Tancredi da Pentima, the fountain is shaped as an irregular trapezoid enclosing a stone courtyard. Water flows from each of the 99 spouts into a central basin. The structure is located near the Aterno River at the edge of the historic city center. It served as a critical water source for the growing medieval city. Following the 2009 earthquake, the fountain underwent structural restoration to stabilize its masonry. It remains a definitive symbol of the city's civic and historical foundation.
From the elevated platform near the entrance for a clear view of the trapezoidal layout.
Walk the full perimeter of the trapezoidal courtyard to view all 99 unique stone faces.
Visit the small information area nearby to learn about the specific local villages represented by the spouts.
Bring a camera with a wide-angle lens to capture the entire courtyard structure.
Do not attempt to drink the water from the spouts as it is not tested for human consumption.
