Italy, the land of architectural wonders, beautiful monument, intricate sculptures and exquisite artwork. How can we forget some of the most beautiful and breath-taking fountains in the world! If you’re planning a trip to Florence, Italy, I suggest trying to see as many fountains as you possibly can. There are two reasons for that; one, these fountains in Florence are absolutely spectacular, and two, you’re going to get the most Instagram-worthy pictures with these fountains in the background. So, if you’re all about enjoying a bit of nature with a dash of design and sculpture, here are some of the best fountains in Florence that you must see!
1. Fountain of Neptune
Contributed by Tour Guide, Joanna
Source: Joanna
Fountain of Neptune is located at Piazza della Signoria in Florence. Check out some interesting facts about the fountain:
One of the brown sculptures in the corner near Palazzo Vecchio is a replica. The original was stolen during a carnival in 1830. A group of cosplayers took advantage of Christmas mayhem, photographed and dressed a sculpture in a costume, and then disappeared.
The inhabitants of Florence did not like the figure of Neptune and they named it Biancone or Whitehead. They even made a poem about the sculptor Ammannati who wasted a good chunk of marble.
Neptune’s chariot wheels represent the signs of the zodiac. Perhaps they symbolize the passage of time. When you visit the attraction, you can look for your zodiac sign!
2. Borgo San Jacopo
This is where the original Tower of the Rossi family stood, which was eventually destroyed by German mines. To decorate the sight, a fountain was built in 1838. This fountain is famously known as the Borgo San Jacopo fountain, which is basically the black statue of a Bacchus standing over an ancient marble tub. Near this statue, you’ll find many cafes and famous restaurants, so you might as well visit!
Borgo San Jacopo
Address: 50125 Firenze FI, Italy
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: Free
3. Fontana del Carciofo
The Fontana del Carciofo is located in the rear end of the Piazza Pitti. This fountain is a delightful sight to behold because there is just so much going on. You will see tiny cupids with bows and arrows all around the fountain and two muscular sculptures holding up the central pillars. This stunning fountain was completed in 1641, making it an ancient wonder.
Fontana del Carciofo
Address: Piazza de’ Pitti, 10R, 50125 Firenze FI, Italy
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: Free
4. La Fontana Di Benvenuto Cellini
This fountain might not be very large, but it is definitely impressive. It was created and inaugurated in 1901. Its age and built makes it worth the visit. Interestingly, the top of the fountain is a bust of Cellini and under that is a plaque which is dedicated to Cellini from the Goldsmiths of Florence. It is a must-visit fountain in Florence.
La Fontana Di Benvenuto Cellini
Address: Ponte Vecchio, 50125, Florence, Italy
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: Free
5. Fontana dei Mostri Marini
The Fountain of the Sea Monsters is one of the most famous tourist attractions. Owing to its popularity, today it is one of the best and most-visited fountains in Florence. The Fountain of the Sea Monsters cast by Fonderia Marinelli is a replica of the original Fountain of Sea Monsters created by Pietro Tacca in 1627. It represents the Renaissance era where sculptures of mythical creatures were rather common.
Fontana dei Mostri Marini
Address: Piazza della Santissima Annunziata, 50121 Firenze FI, Italy
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: Free
6. Fontana dello Sprone
The Fontana dello Sprone aka Fontana del Buontalenti is a 17th-century style public fountain built by Bernardo Buontalenti. This fountain displays a bearded figure that spouts water from its mouth into a round marble basin. What is interesting about this fountain is the mannerist-style design of this small fountain that gives you an insight into history.
Fontana Dello Sprone
Address: Via dello Sprone, 20, 50125 Firenze FI, Italy
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: Free
7. Fontana dei Puttini
The Fontana dei Puttini, commonly known as the marble fountains in Florence is situated in the Piazza Vasari. It is a really quirky and unique marble statue. It is made up of four statues of children who are on all fours on top of each other, with a marble tortoise at the bottom. Created by Mario Moschi, is a testimony to his granddaughter, who would run around the house on all fours behind her pet tortoise.
Fontana dei Puttini
Address: Piazza Vasari, Firenze FI, Italy
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: Free
8. Tivoli Gardens' Fountain
The Tivoli Gardens’ Fountain is located in the Tivoli Gardens, which is now a UNESCO heritage site. Not only must you enjoy the beauty of the gardens and the fountain, but you should walk around the Villa d’Este itself. The Fountain of Tivoli is named after the Tiburtina mountains and the cascades of the fountain represent the river Tivoli. It’s a beautiful sight - so, don’t forget to carry your camera!
Tivoli Gardens’ Fountain
Address: 50125 Florence, Metropolitan City of Florence, Italy
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: Free
9. Fontana del Porcellino (fountain of the boar)
Fontana del Porcellino is more commonly known as the fountain of the boar because it is a bronze statue of a boar. This original sculpture was cast by Pietro Tacca in 1634, while the current statue is a modern but very real copy. The real sculpture is in Palazzo Mozzi. You’re supposed to put a coin in the boar’s jaws and let it fall through the grating for good luck. Also, rubbing the boar’s snout ensures a return to Florence!
Fontana del Porcellino
Address: Piazza del Mercato Nuovo, 6, 50123 Firenze FI, Italy
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: Free
10. The Piazza Santa Croce fountain
The Piazza Santa Croce fountain is a lavish 17th-century fountain which was hidden for quite a while due to restoration. This fountain is at the outer edge of Piazza Santa Croce, right opposite the Palazzo Cocchi-Serristori. This fountain is actually quite intricate and beautiful. It features Deianira, the wife of Hercules, which is what makes it all the more famous.
Piazza Santa Croce fountain
Address: Piazza di Santa Croce, 50122, Florence, Italy
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: Free
One, two, three - let's click a selfie
All the fountains in Florence are located in and around the most famous attractions and tourist spots. Most of these fountains are located in local squares and famous streets, so you can easily plan a day of sightseeing, eat and walk around Florence without going out of your way! Also, don’t forget the mandatory fountain selfies!
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