Fontana Dell’Acqua Paola

Rome is breathtaking in every season, and the list of Must things will never end, if you have lately watched the Oscar winner The great Beauty, at the very beginning the Choir is singing, you might wonder where in rome is that. It’s right on the top of the highest hill Gianicolo, Janiculum , that’s a place where italian lover would bring you to impress. Simply, because its impressive view overlooking Rome’s highest basilicas and everything that this ancient paradise offers.

The Fontana dell’Acqua Paola also is called Il Fontanone, the big fountain, it’s near the church of San Pietro in Montorio, built in 1610, marking the end of Acqua Paola aqueduct, restored by Pope Paul V. It’s a white monumental fountain that supplied and still supplies the water from Lago di Bracciano, from the old St Peter’s Basilica , six fountain pink stone columns comes out. Originally the fountain had five small basins, which were later on replaced by one large granite basin, back in 1690 by Carlo Fontana.

Behind the arches are three openings that provide a stunning view overlooking the the Botanical Garden beyond. There are two winged angels on the top, holding the Papal crest, while dragons and eagles stand guard at the ends. The terrace is splendid giving you a relaxed moment overlooking the beauty of the capital, spying to some of residential terraces under, imagining the finest parties of Rome, held on the terraces. Enjoy!