The Fountain of the Four Rivers (Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi) is one of Rome’s most iconic landmarks, located in the heart of Piazza Navona.
Designed by the renowned Baroque sculptor Gian Lorenzo Bernini, the fountain was commissioned in 1651 by Pope Innocent X to enhance the grandeur of the square, which also houses the Palazzo Pamphili and the Church of Sant’Agnese in Agone.
Symbolism and Design.
The fountain features a large travertine rock formation that supports a towering Egyptian-style obelisk. Surrounding the base are four colossal river gods, each representing a major river from different continents.
- The Nile (Africa): Its head is veiled, symbolising the unknown source of the river at the time.
- The Danube (Europe): Depicted with a horse, signifying strength and movement.
- The Ganges (Asia): Holds an oar, representing navigability.
- The Río de la Plata (Americas): Accompanied by a crocodile, symbolising the exotic nature of the new world.
Above them, the Pamphili family emblem, a dove with an olive branch, crowns the obelisk, reinforcing the fountain’s connection to Pope Innocent X.
Historical Significance.
Bernini’s design was chosen through a secret competition, where he cleverly displayed his model in a location the Pope would pass by. Upon seeing it, Innocent X was so impressed that he overruled his advisors and awarded Bernini the commission. The fountain was unveiled on June 12, 1651, and has since remained a symbol of Baroque artistry and papal influence.
Legends and Curiosities.
A popular legend suggests that the statue of the Nile covers its head to avoid looking at the Church of Sant’Agnese, designed by Bernini’s rival, Francesco Borromini. Meanwhile, the Río de la Plata appears to raise its hand, as if fearing the church’s collapse, though this is purely a myth.