Fountain of the Pinecone – harmony of water and memory in the heart of Rimini

History and description

In the historic center of Rimini stands the Fountain of the Pinecone, a monument that tells the story of multiple eras, with origins dating back to Roman times, as evidenced by the drum supporting the “pinecone” element, decorated with bas‑reliefs reminiscent of pre‑Renaissance periods. The fountain’s current appearance was defined in 1543, when architect Giovanni da Carrara rebuilt it while respecting the original Roman layout. Over the centuries, it suffered various damages and restorations, including the replacement in 1809 of the statue of Saint Paul with the pinecone that today gives the fountain its name.

Made of white marble, the fountain has a polygonal shape with concentric basins and a series of spouts that allow the water to fall in different patterns, creating elegant water displays.

Curiosities

For many centuries, the Fountain of the Pinecone was the only source of drinking water for Rimini, until the inauguration of the public aqueduct in 1912. Moreover, on one of the panels is engraved a famous phrase attributed to Leonardo da Vinci, who was struck by the harmony of the water games and cascades during his stay in the city.

Access

The Fountain of the Pinecone is always accessible, as it is a civic monument located in a public square.

How to reach it

The fountain can be reached by car via the A14 motorway towards Rimini Sud, by train from the station, by bus (such as line 9), or on foot.

A discreet yet powerful symbol of Renaissance Rimini, the Fountain of the Pinecone unites Roman origins, devotion, the art of water, and Leonardo’s memory in an urban gesture of elegance that continues to enchant.

Photo credits: RicciSpeziari~commonswiki (Wikipedia) - Licensed by CC 3.0/2.5/2.0/1.0