Fountain of Neptune – a symbol of Bologna

History and description

Designed by Pier Donato Cesi between 1563 and 1566 to exalt the government of Pope Pius IV, the fountain was created by Tommaso Laureti and Giambologna. It depicts Neptune, holding his trident, as a personification of the Pope dominating the world. Resting on a base made of local sandstone, Neptune, about 3.4 meters tall, is surrounded below by Nereids and Putti holding dolphins, symbolizing the main rivers of the continents.

Curiosities

Traditionally called Il Gigante (“The Giant”) by the people of Bologna, the fountain is tied to several curiosities beyond its practical function in past centuries. It is said to have inspired the Maserati logo, is considered a good‑luck charm for university students—who, by circling it twice, are believed to pass their exams—and hides a detail reminiscent of a phallic figure.

Access

As it stands in the middle of a square, the fountain is always freely accessible.

How to reach it

Located in Piazza del Nettuno, the fountain can be reached from Bologna’s central station on foot, by bus (lines 11 or 27), or by car, parking in the nearby areas.

An iconic monument of Bologna, the Fountain of Neptune is an unmissable stop for anyone discovering the city.

Photo credits: Archaeodontosaurus (Wikipedia) - Licensed by CC 4.0