The Four Seasons Fountain, Milan
Fontana delle Quattro Stagioni is the biggest in Milan. Perhaps, for someone the most beautiful either. If there are people who disagree with this statement they will definitely include this fountain in the top three in the Italian fashion capital after seeing it. That said, it will be embarrassing to deprive yourself from visiting this beautiful creation of man's hands.
History of the fountain
In the early 20th century this area was part of the Milan outskirts neighbourhood where fairs and exhibitions were held. In 1923, the Milan Fair was considered to be a prestigious event. Local entrepreneurs succeeded a lot on the global commerce market. The fountain was meant to adorn the territory where the feast took place. In February 1927, the construction was finished. Fontana delle Quattro Stagioni was incarnated by the architect Renzo Gerla, and the engineers Giovanni Trosti and Camillo Borioli.
In August 1943, during the bombing, the statues that embellished the fountain were destroyed. In 1953, it was restored, and new sculptures by Eros Pellini were installed. At the beginning of the 21st century, the entire CityLife block, in which the fountain is located, was renovated. The neighbourhood acquired a more modern look, bike lanes, green areas. The traffic was limited. The fountain also underwent changes and was opened after restoration in 2014.
Contemporary look of the fountain
Fontana delle Quattro Stagioni consists of three pools with the total length of 58 metres and the width of 18 metres. The central one is slightly elevated and has an island of stones and moss from which water flows into the side basins. Marble and Sarnico stone were the main materials employed. Fontana delle Quattro Stagioni was built in the classicism style with neo-baroque details.
Throughout the outer perimeter of the fountain, there are 18 pyramids, 16 balls, 20 pine cones and 4 statues. Sculptures of female figures representing the four seasons gave the name to the fountain. 60 water jets make up a wonderful sight. The largest one reaches a height of 8 metres. The fountain is particularly beautiful in the evening when the backlight turns on. Each water jet plays fancifully with alternating colours creating a show. After the restoration, the fountain became more economical in water resources. Now the water from it is used for green plantations in the area.
How to get there
The fountain is located in the contemporary neighbourhood called CityLife and dominates the centre of the Julius Caesar square near the building of the Milan Fair. Slightly southeast of the square, Parco Sempione and Sforza Castle are located. The landmark is accessible by:
- Bus, route 68, P.le Giulio Cesare stop.
- Tram, route 19, P.za Sei Febbraio stop.
- Metro, line 5, Tre Torri station, or line 1, Buonarroti station.
