As Rome gears up for the highly anticipated Jubilee Year in 2025, the city has unveiled the stunning restoration of one of its most iconic landmarks: the Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi (Fountain of the Four Rivers) in Piazza Navona. This remarkable Baroque masterpiece, which had been hidden behind scaffolding for much of 2024, is now ready to dazzle visitors with its renewed splendor, just like the more famous Trevi Fountain, whose restoration is about to be completed.
A Masterpiece by Bernini in Piazza Navona
Designed by Gian Lorenzo Bernini in the mid-1600s, the Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi is a centerpiece of Baroque art and architecture. Commissioned by Pope Innocent X, the fountain represents the church’s triumph during a time of religious upheaval in Europe.
At the heart of the fountain stands an ancient Egyptian obelisk surrounded by four monumental figures symbolizing the great rivers of the known continents at the time:
- The Nile (Africa): A veiled figure symbolizing the mysterious, uncharted origins of the river.
- The Ganges (Asia): Holding an oar, this figure represents the river’s navigability.
- The Danube (Europe): The major river in Europe, depicted with a gesture toward the Papal coat of arms.
- The Río de la Plata (Americas): Represented as a figure among coins, symbolizing wealth but recoiling from a serpent, indicating danger.
Each sculpture is intricately detailed with flora, fauna, and other elements representing the cultural and natural diversity of the continents.
The History of Piazza Navona
Piazza Navona, where the fountain resides, has a history as vibrant as the fountain itself. Originally built in the 1st century AD as the Stadium of Domitian, the area was used for athletic events and could hold over 30,000 spectators. Over time, it transformed into a public square and became one of the most popular locations for showcasing Baroque art in the 17th century.
Other famous fountains in the piazza include the Fontana del Moro and the Fountain of Neptune, but it is the Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi that dominates the scene, capturing the grandeur and artistic excellence of Rome’s golden age.
Restoration for the Jubilee
The recent restoration of Piazza Navona’s Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi, part of preparations for the Jubilee Year, focused on revitalizing the fountain after centuries of exposure to the elements. The project included cleaning the travertine surfaces, reinforcing the sculptures, and restoring the delicate details carved by Bernini and his workshop.
For much of 2024, the fountain was under wraps, leaving visitors unable to admire its full beauty. Now, with the restoration completed, the Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi is once again a symbol of Rome’s enduring dedication to preserving its cultural treasures.
A Must-See in 2025
If you plan to visit Rome in 2025 for the Jubilee celebrations, be sure to include Piazza Navona in your itinerary. It’s one of the sites covered by our Rome Walking Tour, which also includes the Pantheon, the Spanish Steps, and the Trevi Fountain.
The restored fountain is a testament to the city’s timeless charm and artistic legacy. Standing before Bernini’s masterpiece, you’ll witness a perfect blend of history, symbolism, and artistry.
Whether it’s your first trip to Rome or a return to a beloved destination, the newly restored Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi promises to leave you in awe. It is not just a monument but a vibrant connection to Rome’s past and a shining example of its cultural renaissance.
Conclusion
The restoration of the Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi marks a significant moment in Rome’s preparations for the Jubilee Year. As visitors flood to the Eternal City in 2025, this Baroque marvel, brought back to life, will undoubtedly stand as a highlight of their journey. Don’t miss the opportunity to witness history and art intertwined in one of Rome’s most iconic settings.
For more information, check out the official website of the city or Rome.
