Neptune Fountain – a postcard‑worthy landmark in Trento

History and description

Commissioned in 1767 by the civic magistrate of Trento to Francesco Antonio Giongo da Lavarone and inaugurated two years later during the feast of Saint Vigilius, the Neptune Fountain is a red‑stone structure about twelve meters high. It features a polygonal staircase, a central basin from which four shell‑shaped basins decorated with mythological figures branch out, and at the center a pedestal adorned with putti and dolphins. At its top stands the statue of the god Neptune, originally sculpted by Stefano Salterio but later replaced by Davide Rigatti. The figure of Neptune is seen not only as a symbol of the sea but also of ancient Tridentum, given his trident. The fountain, which has undergone several restorations—its original elements preserved at Palazzo Thun—was designed both as a decorative embellishment of the square and as a source of drinking water for the citizens.

Curiosities

Recognized as one of the most important fountains in Trento and often depicted in artistic representations of the city, the Neptune Fountain also inspired Leo Müsch, who in 1895 created a reproduction of it in Elberfeld.

Access

As a public outdoor monument, the fountain is freely accessible at all times.

How to reach it

Located in Piazza Duomo, in the very heart of Trento’s historic center, the fountain is easily reachable by car (with parking available nearby), by public transport—particularly from Trento railway station or via local bus lines—or on foot, as it is immediately visible upon reaching the Duomo.

Considered one of Trento’s most important monuments, the Neptune Fountain is an unmissable stop when visiting the city and a perfect starting point for a stroll through the historic center.

Photo credits: Julian Mendez (Wikipedia) - Licensed by public domain