Fontana Dell'Acqua Paola - Free Audio Guide

The Fontana dell'Acqua Paola, often called the "Fontanone," is a monumental early seventeenth‑century fountain on Rome’s Janiculum Hill. Commissioned by Pope Paul V (Borghese) to mark the restoration of the Acqua Paola aqueduct bringing water from Lake Bracciano, the project is attributed to Giovanni Fontana and collaborators and was completed in the 1610s. Its broad travertine façade with arches, cascading basins and a notable papal inscription exemplify Baroque civic display. Historically the fountain symbolised papal investment in public utilities and urban renewal; culturally it has become a landmark, a recurring subject for artists and photographers, and a focal point on the Janiculum providing wide views over Rome. Key attractions include the monumental cascade, sculptural ornament and the Latin dedication. As a city monument it is accessed from surrounding terraces and paths; approaches include slopes and steps and accessibility may be limited in parts.