The Fountain of the Rosello stands near the medieval walls at the edge of Sassari’s old town. Built in the early 17th century by Genoese craftsmen, it was once a major source of water for the city. Look closely at its green and white marble, the figures around its sides and the small equestrian statue of San Gavino above the crossed arches. The fountain is easy to miss, and the approach is steep, but its sculpted details make the walk worthwhile.
A fountain built for Sassari
The Rosello spring was known long before the fountain took its present form. The earliest evidence cited for the site dates to 1295, and the spring is also linked to the ancient Gurusello source. The fountain was built between 1603 and 1606, with Genoese craftsmen responsible for its design and construction.
Its role was practical as well as decorative. The fountain supplied water to Sassari, and accounts of its history describe water being carried by aqueduct to Porto Torres. Its position near the old town and the Rosello valley connects the monument to the water source that gave the area its name.
Marble, water and sculpture
Two blocks of green and white marble form the fountain’s main structure. Crossed arches rise above them, topped by a small equestrian statue of San Gavino, Sassari’s protector. Water flows from eight sculpted outlets around the sides.
The figures invite a closer look. Statues associated with the four seasons occupy the corners, while other sculptures include lions and dolphins. The season figures have distinct attributes: flowers for spring, grapes and a bearskin for autumn, ears of corn for summer, and the figure of an old man for winter. One original statue is kept at Palazzo Ducale, so not every figure at the fountain is original.
Finding the monument
The fountain lies on the outskirts of the old town, close to the medieval walls and beneath the Rosello bridge. It is set below street level, so the descent can be easy to miss. The approach has been described as steep and overgrown, and the monument’s surroundings do not provide much interpretation. Take care on the path and allow time to examine the carvings once you reach the fountain.
The site is listed with a wheelchair-accessible entrance and accessible parking. Its steep approach may still affect how comfortable the visit is, so check access locally before going.
Perguntas frequentes
When was the Fountain of the Rosello built?
It was built between 1603 and 1606 by Genoese craftsmen.
What does the Fountain of the Rosello represent?
The sculptures include figures associated with the four seasons, as well as lions and dolphins. The fountain is also linked to Sassari’s history as a source of water for the city.
Where is the Fountain of the Rosello?
It is near the medieval walls at the edge of Sassari’s old town, below the Rosello bridge.
