Four Rivers Fountain

Welcome to Piazza Navona, and more specifically, to the centerpiece of this magnificent square: the Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi, or the Fountain of the Four Rivers. Created by the incomparable Gian Lorenzo Bernini between 1648 and…

Standing at the center of the fountain is a 30-meter-high Egyptian obelisk. While it looks ancient, its story is a bit more complex. …

Let us examine the individual river gods, starting with the Danube, representing Europe. He is the figure that appears to be touching the Pope's personal coat of arms. …

Moving around the fountain, we encounter the River Nile, representing Africa. You will immediately notice that his head is draped with a piece of cloth, obscuring his eyes. …

The next figure we see is the Ganges, representing Asia. He holds a long oar, which symbolizes the great navigability of the river. …

Finally, we come to the Rio de la Plata, representing the Americas. He is sitting on a pile of coins, a direct reference to the incredible silver and gold wealth that the Spanish were extracting from the New World at the time. …

As you complete your circle around the fountain, take a moment to look for the seven animals and mythical figures that Bernini tucked into the travertine rocks. These are not mere decorations; they are essential parts of the…

While we admire the fountain today as a priceless treasure, it was not universally loved when it was built. Pope Innocent the Tenth was a controversial figure. …

As we conclude our time at the Four Rivers Fountain, take one last look at the entire composition. From the powerful river gods to the soaring obelisk and the delicate dove at the top, Bernini created a work that truly 'gave life…