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Lateran Obelisk Fountain, Rome

Lateran Obelisk Fountain, Rome

The Lateran Obelisk Fountain is a landmark on the Piazza San Giovanni in Rome. The composition of the square is the work of the famous Italian architect Domenico Fontano, and it was him who in 1588 carried out a complete reconstruction of the Lateran Hill. Near the fountain there is the main attraction of the square – the Lateran obelisk.

History of the Lateran Obelisk Fountain

The fountain was laid by the order of the Pope Clement VIII, it is his coat of arms that is the main gem in the composition of the fountain. The construction was conducted at the expense of the Head of the Lateran Basilica.

However, during the years of his life Clement VIII did not manage to build the Lateran Obelisk Fountain and the construction continued under the reign of Pope Leo X. Two sculptures and a bronze statue of San Giovanni-Evangelista were added to the composition of the fountain, but none of the details survived to our days. Pope Paul V finished the work on the fountain, the solemn opening took place in 1607.

Composition of the Fountain

According to historians, the author of the composition of the fountain is the Italian court architect Flaminio Ponzio. The architecture of the fountain is represented by a large round bowl with high sides, which frames the facade, and it is crowned with a frame and decorated with stripes. The period of its creation most likely coincides with the period of the reign of Pope Clement VIII.

The main gem of the composition is an eagle in the central part of the facade, as well as sculptures of two dragons, from whose mouth water flows. Eagle and dragons are symbols of Pope Paul V.

The ancient Roman tradition is connected with the Lateran Obelisk Fountain – on the night of San Giovanni, the townspeople moistened their hands in the waters of the fountain, because they believed that its water was filled with special power and capable of driving away witches and protecting them from the evil eye.

How to get there

The Lateran Obelisk Fountain in Rome is located in the historic part of the Eternal City, just in 5 minutes walk from the Colosseum, as well as the Piazza Venezia and the Spanish Steps. One of the main shopping areas of Rome – Via del Corso is also within walking distance.

In order to get to the fountain, the tourist should use the services of public transport: buses № 16, 85, 87, 117, 186, 218, 714, 650, 673, 850.

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