Barcaccia Fountain

Discover Rome's Barcaccia Fountain, a unique Baroque masterpiece at the Spanish Steps. Learn its history, inspired by a flood, and Pietro Bernini's genius.

Overview

Nestled at the foot of Rome's iconic Spanish Steps, in the bustling Piazza di Spagna, lies the enchanting Barcaccia Fountain. This Baroque masterpiece, known in Italian as Fontana della Barcaccia, or the 'Fountain of the Old Boat', captivates visitors with its unique and somewhat whimsical design. Unlike the grand, soaring jets of many Roman fountains, the Barcaccia presents a low-lying, partially submerged boat, an artistic solution born from both inspiration and necessity. It serves as a gentle counterpoint to the dramatic sweep of the Spanish Steps, inviting travelers to pause and appreciate its understated charm before or after ascending the monumental staircase.

History & Cultural Background

The Barcaccia Fountain was constructed between 1627 and 1629, a testament to the collaborative genius of Pietro Bernini and potentially his more famous son, Gian Lorenzo Bernini, especially after Pietro's death in 1629. The commission came from Pope Urban VIII Barberini, who envisioned public fountains in Rome's major squares, supplied by the restored Acqua Vergine aqueduct. A significant challenge arose from the aqueduct's low water pressure in this particular area, making conventional high-jet fountains impossible. Pietro Bernini ingeniously overcame this by designing the fountain to sit slightly below street level, creating the illusion of a sunken boat that naturally allows water to flow gently. The inspiration for this peculiar boat shape is widely believed to stem from a historic event: the severe Tiber River flood of 1598, which reportedly carried a small fishing boat into the Piazza di Spagna, leaving it stranded when the waters receded. Crafted from travertine, a type of limestone abundant in the region, the fountain embodies the artistic innovation characteristic of the early Baroque period.

What Makes It Special

What truly sets the Barcaccia Fountain apart is its innovative design that transformed a technical limitation into an artistic triumph. The low water pressure from the Acqua Vergine aqueduct meant that grand, vertical water displays were not feasible. Instead, the Berninis conceived a fountain shaped like a half-submerged boat, where water gently overflows its sides and flows from several points, including two sun-shaped faces inside the boat and outlets resembling gunboats on the exterior. This creates a serene and constant flow, rather than powerful sprays, which is deeply harmonious with its surroundings. The fountain also features the papal coats of arms of the Barberini family, adorned with their signature bees and suns, proudly displayed on its bow and stern, signifying Pope Urban VIII's patronage. This sculptural form marked a departure from the more traditional, geometric fountains of earlier eras, making it one of Rome's earliest Baroque fountains to embrace more dynamic and naturalistic forms.

Stories, Fun Facts & Local Details

The legend of the 1598 flood, where a boat was left stranded in the piazza, is a captivating story that deeply influenced Bernini's creation. It's a reminder of Rome's long and often tumultuous relationship with the Tiber River. Beyond its historical inspiration, the Barcaccia Fountain holds a poignant connection to the English Romantic poet John Keats. During his final days in Rome, residing in a house overlooking the Spanish Steps, Keats reportedly found comfort in the soothing sound of the fountain's flowing water. He is said to have drawn inspiration from it for his famous epitaph: "Here lies one whose name was writ in water." The fountain has undergone several restorations over the centuries, maintaining its beauty despite occasional acts of vandalism, including incidents in 2007 and 2015. These events underscore its cultural significance and the ongoing efforts to preserve this historical treasure. The Barcaccia is not just a monument; it's a living piece of Roman history, with potable water flowing from it, a common feature of many Roman fountains.

Visitor Perspective

The Barcaccia Fountain, freely accessible 24/7, offers a peaceful respite in the vibrant heart of Rome. It is a natural meeting point at the base of the Spanish Steps, providing a charming focal point for those exploring the Piazza di Spagna. While it can get very crowded, especially during peak tourist seasons, visiting early in the morning or later in the evening allows for a more tranquil experience. Observing the gentle flow of water and the intricate details of the boat-shaped sculpture provides a moment of calm amidst the Eternal City's grandeur. From here, visitors can ascend the Spanish Steps to the Trinità dei Monti church for panoramic views, or explore the surrounding luxury shopping streets. The fountain's unassuming presence and constant, soft murmur of water make it a beloved spot for both locals and travelers seeking a genuine connection with Rome's rich history and artistic heritage.