Fontana del Moro

Explore Fontana del Moro in Rome's Piazza Navona. Discover the Baroque fountain by Giacomo della Porta and Bernini, featuring the Moor wrestling a dolphin.

Overview

Nestled at the southern end of the majestic Piazza Navona in the heart of Rome, Italy, stands the captivating Fontana del Moro, or "Fountain of the Moor." This intricate Baroque masterpiece is one of three significant fountains adorning the piazza, drawing visitors with its unique artistry and historical depth. At its core, the fountain features a muscular figure, often interpreted as a Moor or an African, powerfully wrestling with a dolphin, all set within a large rose-colored marble basin. Surrounding this central struggle are several tritons, masks, and additional dolphins, contributing to its dynamic and nautical theme. Originally conceived by the architect Giacomo della Porta in the 16th century, the fountain was later significantly enhanced by the renowned Baroque sculptor Gian Lorenzo Bernini in the mid-17th century, making it a testament to the collaborative artistic spirit of the era.

History & Cultural Background

The story of Fontana del Moro begins in 1575 when Giacomo della Porta was commissioned to design a fountain to supply water from the Acqua Vergine aqueduct, the same ancient source that feeds the iconic Trevi Fountain. Della Porta's original design for the fountain included a large basin decorated with tritons, dragons, and masks. For several decades, this fountain, then known as the "Fountain of the Snails" or "Seashell Fountain," stood without a prominent central figure. However, the artistic landscape of Piazza Navona underwent a grand transformation under Pope Innocent X Pamphili in the mid-17th century. Impressed by Bernini's work on the central Fountain of the Four Rivers, Pope Innocent X tasked Bernini with revitalizing the two smaller fountains at either end of the piazza, including Della Porta's creation. Bernini's masterful intervention around 1653-1655 introduced the powerful central figure of the Moor wrestling a dolphin. While Bernini provided the design, the actual carving of this central statue was executed by Giovanni Antonio Mari. Over time, to ensure their preservation, the original sculptures from the fountain, including Della Porta's tritons and masks and Bernini's central figure, were relocated to the Galleria Borghese in 1874, with precise copies taking their place on the fountain for public enjoyment.

What Makes It Special

The Fontana del Moro holds a special place among Rome's many artistic treasures due to its compelling blend of design and narrative. It showcases the distinctive styles of two influential Baroque artists, Giacomo della Porta and Gian Lorenzo Bernini, creating a harmonious yet evolved aesthetic. The fountain's dynamic composition is particularly striking, depicting a vigorous struggle between the central figure and the dolphin, a scene amplified by the surrounding tritons and water effects. Water, integral to any fountain, is utilized here with Bernini's characteristic flair, flowing from the dolphin's mouth and the tritons' conches, bringing the scene to life. The symbolism embedded within the fountain is also a source of fascination. While commonly referred to as the "Moor" due to the central figure's features, there's ongoing debate whether it specifically depicts an African figure or perhaps even Neptune, the Roman god of the sea. Some interpretations suggest the figure symbolizes the triumph of Christianity over historical Moorish invasions, while others view it as an allegory for humanity's eternal struggle with the untamed forces of nature. Despite being occasionally overshadowed by its grander neighbor, Bernini's Fountain of the Four Rivers, the Fontana del Moro stands as a significant work of art in its own right, offering a more intimate and dramatically charged experience.

Stories, Fun Facts & Local Details

• The Origin of the Name: The fountain's name, "Fontana del Moro," which translates to "Fountain of the Moor," derives from the distinctive facial features of its central statue, which were perceived to resemble a Moorish or African man.
• Bernini's Rejected Design: Gian Lorenzo Bernini initially proposed a different design for the centerpiece, featuring three fish with tails up supporting a water-spouting shell. However, this design, sometimes described as snails or a snail group, was not deemed grand enough by Pope Innocent X or his influential sister-in-law, Olimpia Maidalchini, and was eventually relocated to the gardens of Villa Pamphilj.
• A Sculptor's Subtle Revenge?: A popular Roman legend suggests that Bernini, known for his clever wit, imbued the central figure of the Moor with facial features reminiscent of Pasquino. Pasquino was one of Rome's "talking statues" used for anonymous social and political commentary, hinting at a playful jab from the artist.
• A Vandalism and Restoration: In a regrettable incident in 2011, the Fontana del Moro was damaged by a vandal wielding a hammer, but thankfully, it was subsequently and successfully restored to its original splendor.
• Bernini's Modello: Before the final marble statue was carved, Bernini created a detailed terracotta model, known as a modello, for the central figure. At 80.5 cm tall, this piece is recognized as Bernini's tallest surviving terracotta work and showcases his meticulous design process.
• The "Lake" of Piazza Navona: In centuries past, during the hot Roman summers, the drains of the piazza's fountains, including the Fontana del Moro, would sometimes be blocked. This would flood the entire square, transforming Piazza Navona into a grand "lake" for public recreation and entertainment.

Visitor Perspective

Visiting the Fontana del Moro offers a chance to step back in time and appreciate the grandeur of Baroque Rome. Located at the southern end of Piazza Navona, directly opposite the Fountain of Neptune and balancing the magnificent Fountain of the Four Rivers, it plays a crucial role in the square's overall artistic composition. As a public monument, the fountain is freely accessible to all visitors, inviting close inspection of its intricate details. To fully immerse yourself in its beauty and the ambiance of Piazza Navona, consider visiting in the early morning or late afternoon when the crowds are typically thinner. The piazza also takes on a magical quality at night, with the fountains beautifully illuminated. Beyond the fountain itself, Piazza Navona buzzes with life, offering a vibrant atmosphere filled with street performers, artists, and numerous cafes where you can relax and soak in the historical surroundings. The Fontana del Moro serves as a reminder of Rome's rich artistic heritage, providing a fascinating focal point for reflection amidst the lively Roman streetscape.