At the north end of Piazza Navona, the Neptune Fountain pairs a Renaissance basin with a dramatic sculpture group added centuries later. Neptune wrestles an octopus, surrounded by sea creatures and figures that give the scene a sense of motion. The fountain is one of three in the square, and its position offers a quieter pause from the central fountain. Look closely at the carved details, then continue across Piazza Navona to see how the three fountains shape the long piazza.
A fountain completed centuries later
The Neptune Fountain stands at the northern end of Piazza Navona, opposite the Fountain of the Moor at the southern end. Its basin was designed by Giacomo della Porta in 1574, during work to renew Rome’s aqueduct system. For nearly three centuries, the basin remained without the sculptural group that now defines it.
The city added the figures in 1873. Antonio della Bitta sculpted Neptune fighting an octopus, while Gregorio Zappalà created the surrounding sea creatures. The result brings together a 16th-century fountain basin and a later, more animated sculpture group. The fountain was once known as the Fountain of the Coppersmiths, after craftspeople who worked nearby.
Look closely at the sculpture group
Neptune is shown grappling with an octopus, with sea figures and animals gathered around him. The arrangement draws the eye from the central struggle to the surrounding details. Walk around the fountain to see the figures from different angles and to take in how they fit within the basin.
The scene’s movement sets this fountain apart from a plain water basin. Its later sculptures give the northern end of Piazza Navona a distinct character, while the fountain remains part of the square’s larger sequence of three. A visit can be as brief as a pause to study the figures, or part of a walk around the whole piazza.
Finding it in Piazza Navona
The fountain is easy to locate at the north end of Piazza Navona. Its position makes it a natural stop when walking the length of the square between the northern fountain and the Fountain of the Moor at the other end. The central fountain is another landmark to see along the way.
Early in the day, the square is a good place to focus on the sculptural details. At night, the fountain is illuminated, and the piazza can feel calmer as crowds thin. Keep valuables secure while moving through the square, where sellers are present.
Häufige Fragen
Where is the Neptune Fountain?
It is at the northern end of Piazza Navona in Rome.
Who sculpted the Neptune Fountain?
Antonio della Bitta sculpted Neptune fighting an octopus. Gregorio Zappalà created the surrounding sea creatures.
When was the Neptune Fountain completed?
Giacomo della Porta designed the basin in 1574. The sculptural group was added in 1873.
When is a good time to see the fountain?
Visit early in the day to focus on the details, or at night to see it illuminated when the square is quieter.
