The statues on the facade of St. Peter's in Rome. The most important Basilica of the Catholic Church has 13 statues and a clock on its facade. I'm not going to copy what you can easily find online, I'll leave you the photo!
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At the top are the statues, some over 5.7 m high, of Jesus, John the Baptist and eleven of the twelve apostles (Saint Peter is missing). On the sides of the same are two clocks made in 1785 by Giuseppe Valadier, the clock on the left, called Oltremontano, indicates the real time, the one based on the time zone, while the one on the right, called Italian, indicates the solar Italic time with the count starting at sunset of each day and the completion of the twenty-fourth hour at the following sunset; furthermore, another difference, the one on the left has the two classic hands of the hours and minutes while the one on the right has a single hand. Continue and learn more on Wikipedia
The statues of the facade of San Pietro in Rome – Les statues de la façade de San Pietro à Rome – Las estatuas de la fachada de San Pietro en Roma – As estátuas da fachada de San Pietro em Roma – Die Statuen der Fassade von San Pietro in Rom – Những bức tượng ở mặt tiền của San Pietro ở Rome
The Fountain of the River Plate in the Fountain of the Four Rivers in Rome. The Fountain of the Four Rivers is one of the most famous works of the Roman Baroque, located in Piazza Navona in Rome. Designed by Gian Lorenzo Bernini and completed in 1651, the fountain represents the four great rivers of the four continents known at the time: the Nile (Africa), the Ganges (Asia), the Danube (Europe) and the River Plate (Americas). The figure of the River Plate represents the American continent and is located on the western side of the fountain. This figure is depicted as a robust and powerful man, leaning on a rock. Here are some specific characteristics: The figure of the River Plate is stretched out and looks downwards, as if he were about to slide away. The posture suggests a sense of movement and dynamism. The figure is surrounded by exotic objects that allude to the riches of the Americas. Among these objects, there is a bag of coins, symbolizing the abundance of resources such as silver, of which the river is a representation (the “Plata” in Spanish means “silver”). At the foot of the figure is an armadillo, an animal typical of the South American regions, which further contributes to the geographical and symbolic context of the sculpture. The face of the figure appears frightened, perhaps reflecting the idea of the “New World” as a land still largely unknown and mysterious to the Europeans of the time. The Fountain of the Four Rivers is a masterpiece of engineering and art, not only for its aesthetic beauty but also for its symbolism. It represents the papal dominion and the centrality of Rome in the Catholic world of the time. Each river is represented in a way that reflects not only the geographical but also the cultural and political characteristics of their respective regions. The Rio de la Plata, with its representation of wealth and sense of discovery, embodies the idea of America as a land of opportunity and mystery.
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Tradition, which sees Bernini as a rival to his contemporary Borromini, has created the legend according to which the figure who represents the Rio de la Plata in the fountain raises his hand towards the church of Sant’Agnese opposite as a sign of defense against the imminent fall of the building. However, this remains only a legend since the construction of the church of Sant’Agnese in Agone began only later, in 1652. Continue and learn more on Wikipedia
The fountain of the Rio de la Plata in the Fountain of the Four Rivers in Rome – La fontaine du Rio de la Plata dans la Fontaine des Quatre Fleuves à Rome – La fuente del Río de la Plata en la Fuente de los Cuatro Ríos en Roma – A fonte do Rio de la Plata na Fonte dos Quatro Rios em Roma – Der Brunnen des Rio de la Plata im Vierströmebrunnen in Rom – Đài phun nước Rio de la Plata trong Đài phun nước Bốn con sông ở Rome
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The lion statue in the Fountain of the Four Rivers. In the beating heart of Rome, Piazza Navona is one of the most iconic and fascinating places in the eternal city. At the center of this baroque square stands the magnificent Fountain of the Four Rivers, one of the most famous works by the master Gian Lorenzo Bernini. Among the many figures that adorn this fountain, the lion is an element that particularly captures the attention of visitors, symbolizing strength and majesty in an artistic context of extraordinary beauty. Built between 1648 and 1651 on commission by Pope Innocent X, the Fountain of the Four Rivers is a masterpiece of baroque art. The fountain represents the four great rivers of the four continents known at the time: the Nile for Africa, the Ganges for Asia, the Danube for Europe and the Rio de la Plata for the Americas. Each river is personified by a colossal statue that expresses the characteristics of its respective continent. The lion, located next to the representation of the Nile River, is a figure that embodies power and royalty. Depicted while drinking from the waters of the fountain, the lion symbolizes the life that springs from water, an essential element for human and animal existence. The choice of the lion is not accidental: in Christian symbolism and iconography of the time, the lion also represents resurrection and spiritual strength. Bernini's lion is sculpted with meticulous attention to detail, which enhances its majesty and vividness. The powerful paws, the flowing mane and the intense expression of the face make this sculpture a perfect example of Bernini's mastery in transforming marble into life. The posture of the lion, captured in the act of drinking, adds a sense of movement and realism that helps make the entire fountain a dynamic and fascinating work. The lion of the Fontana dei Fiumi has a significant cultural impact, representing not only a decorative element but also a powerful symbol that evokes the grandeur and richness of nature. Its presence in Piazza Navona, a meeting and celebration place for Romans and tourists, underlines the importance of art as a means of communicating universal values and enriching the collective experience of urban space.
The lion of the Fountain of the Rivers is an eloquent testimony to the artistic genius of Gian Lorenzo Bernini and his ability to breathe life into marble. This symbol of strength and majesty, placed in one of the most fascinating contexts of Rome, continues to fascinate and inspire visitors from all over the world. The Fountain of the Rivers, with its imposing lion, remains one of the undisputed masterpieces of Roman Baroque, a place where art and history merge in an eternal dance of beauty and meaning.
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a lion on the eastern side that emerges, like the horse, from the cavity in the rocks to drink at the foot of an African palm tree (made by Giobatta Palombo in 1650) that rises up to the base of the obelisk Continue and learn more on Wikipedia
The lion statue in the Fountain of the Four Rivers in the square called Navona in Rome – La statue du lion dans la Fontaine des Quatre Fleuves sur la place Navona à Rome – La estatua del león en la Fuente de los Cuatro Ríos en la plaza llamada Navona en Roma – A estátua do leão na Fonte dos Quatro Rios, na praça chamada Navona, em Roma – Die Löwenstatue im Vierströmebrunnen auf dem Platz namens Navona in Rom – Tượng sư tử tại Đài phun nước Bốn con sông ở quảng trường Navona ở Rome
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The Fountain of Neptune in Piazza Navona in Rome. I still have some photos of some monuments of Rome from my last visit to the capital. These three photos are of the beautiful fountain located in Piazza Navona. Probably overshadowed by the larger and more famous Fountain of the Four Rivers, it is still worthy of a post of mine!
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The Fountain of Neptune is located at the northern end of Piazza Navona in Rome. Also known, once, as the Fountain of the Calderai, it owed this name to its proximity to the ancient Vicolo dei Calderai (or Calderari), a small street occupied by the shops of blacksmiths and sellers of pans, pots and metal dishes in general. The basin, by Giacomo della Porta, dates back to 1575-76, while the sculptures that decorate it were placed only in 1878, by the sculptors Antonio Della Bitta and Gregorio Zappalà. Continue and learn more on Wikipedia
The Fountain of Neptune in the Navona square in Rome – La fontaine de Neptune sur la place Navone à Rome – La Fuente de Neptuno en la plaza Navona de Roma – A Fonte de Netuno na Praça Navona, em Roma – Der Neptunbrunnen auf dem Navona-Platz in Rom – Đài phun nước Neptune ở quảng trường Navona ở Rome – 罗马纳沃纳广场的海王星喷泉 – ローマのナヴォーナ広場にあるネプチューンの噴水
The imposing Obelisk of Montecitorio in Rome. In the heart of Rome, among the majestic streets and historic buildings, stands an imposing testimony to the glorious past of ancient Egypt: the Obelisk of Montecitorio. This ancient monument, dating back to the 6th century BC, continues to enchant visitors and residents with its beauty and fascinating history. The obelisk, also known as the Obelisk of Psammetichus II, has passed through millennia of history before finding its current home in the Piazza di Montecitorio, in front of the Italian Chamber of Deputies. Originally erected in Heliopolis, the obelisk was transported to Rome in 10 BC at the behest of Emperor Augustus. Since then, it has witnessed a succession of emperors, popes and governments, becoming a silent witness to the changes and events that have shaped the eternal city. Standing approximately 21.79 meters tall, the obelisk is an impressive structure made of red Egyptian granite. Its surfaces are decorated with hieroglyphic inscriptions that celebrate the pharaoh Psamtik II, emphasizing his greatness and power. These ancient symbols communicate the magnificence of ancient Egypt and its lasting influence on Roman culture and art. Today, the Obelisk of Montecitorio continues to capture the imagination of visitors, offering them a unique opportunity to connect with the glorious past of Rome and ancient Egypt. Its presence in the Piazza di Montecitorio adds a touch of mystery and charm to the city's skyline, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in its thousand-year history. If you are in Rome, do not miss the opportunity to admire this extraordinary treasure of antiquity. Take a stroll through the Piazza di Montecitorio and be fascinated by the magnificence of the Obelisk of Montecitorio, a tangible symbol of the indelible bond between Rome and the ancient Egyptian world.
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The obelisk of Montecitorio, currently located in the square of the same name in the Capital, is one of the thirteen ancient obelisks of Rome. It is 30 meters high and was brought to Rome by Augustus in 10 BC. The obelisk of Monte Citorio, already present at the time of Pharaoh Psammetichus II (595-589 BC), was originally located in the city of Heliopolis in Egypt. Continue and learn more on Wikipedia
The imposing Obelisk of Montecitorio in Rome – L’imposant obélisque de Montecitorio à Rome – El imponente Obelisco de Montecitorio en Roma – O imponente Obelisco de Montecitorio em Roma – Der imposante Obelisk von Montecitorio in Rom – Obelisk hùng vĩ của Montecitorio ở Rome – 罗马雄伟的蒙特西托里奥方尖碑 – ローマのモンテチトリオの堂々としたオベリスク
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The fountain with the obelisk in front of the Pantheon in Rome. Welcome to the enchanting square in front of the Pantheon, where antiquity merges with art and beauty. In addition to the majesty of the Pantheon and the imposing obelisk, the square is home to one of the most fascinating fountains in Rome. The Pantheon Fountain: Located in the center of the square, the Pantheon Fountain captures the eye with its elegance. Designed by Giacomo Della Porta in 1575, the fountain features a circular basin with an obelisk in the center, combining classical Roman aesthetics with the grandeur of the Egyptian obelisk. The water flows gently along the walls of the basin, creating a soothing sound that accompanies visitors on their journey through time. Dolphin statuettes, symbols of sea gods, decorate the fountain, adding a touch of grace and mythology to the view. An oasis of tranquility: The Pantheon Fountain offers a refuge of serenity amidst the hustle and bustle of the eternal city. Visitors can sit by the fountain, admire the Pantheon in the background and enjoy the beauty around them. Union of Cultures: The presence of the fountain, the obelisk and the Pantheon reflects the cultural eclecticism that characterizes the history of Rome. Elements from different civilizations blend harmoniously in this space, celebrating the diversity and mutual influence of ancient cultures. Capture lasting memories: The square in front of the Pantheon becomes a perfect place to immortalize special moments. With the Pantheon in the background, the fountain and the obelisk create a unique setting that will enchant photographers and visitors, capturing the magic of Rome in every shot.
Visiting the Pantheon is not only a journey through history, but also a sensory experience that embraces art, architecture and nature. Discovering the square with its obelisk, the Pantheon Fountain and the iconic temple is an unforgettable journey into the heart of Rome.
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Here is where the remains of the temple are located:
At the beginning of the 7th century, the Pantheon was donated by the Eastern Emperor Phocas to Pope Boniface IV and was converted into a Christian basilica called Santa Maria della Rotonda or Santa Maria ad Martyres, which allowed it to survive almost intact the spoliations suffered by other buildings of classical Rome. It enjoys the rank of minor basilica and is the only basilica in Rome other than the patriarchal ones to still have a chapter. The inhabitants of Rome popularly called it the Rotonna (“the Rotunda”), from which also derive the name of the square and the street in front. Continue and learn more on Wikipedia
The fountain with the obelisk in front of the Pantheon in Rome – La fontaine avec l’obélisque devant le Panthéon de Rome – La fuente con el obelisco frente al Panteón de Roma – A fonte com o obelisco em frente ao Panteão de Roma – Der Brunnen mit dem Obelisken vor dem Pantheon in Rom – Đài phun nước với đài tưởng niệm phía trước đền Pantheon ở Rome – 罗马万神殿前有方尖碑的喷泉 – ローマのパンテオン前のオベリスクのある噴水
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The Trevi Fountain: a masterpiece of Roman Baroque. The Trevi Fountain is one of the most iconic monuments in Rome and one of the most famous fountains in the world. Located in the heart of the Eternal City, this majestic work of art attracts millions of visitors every year, fascinated by its beauty and history. The fountain was designed by the architect Nicola Salvi and completed by Giuseppe Pannini in 1762. Its construction was commissioned by Pope Clement XII in 1732, with the aim of celebrating the restoration of the ancient aqueduct of the Acqua Vergine, which dates back to the time of Emperor Augustus. This aqueduct supplied pure water to the city of Rome and the fountain represents the terminal point of this water system. The Trevi Fountain is a masterpiece of the late Baroque, characterized by a rich sculptural decoration representing the sea. At the center of the fountain stands the statue of Oceanus, the work of Pietro Bracci, who drives a shell-shaped chariot pulled by sea horses. Around him, mythological figures and sea creatures complete the scene, creating an effect of movement and dynamism. The fountain is set in the facade of Palazzo Poli, which serves as a monumental backdrop. The decorations include numerous plants and plant species carved in marble, which add a touch of realism and naturalness to the work.
One of the most famous traditions associated with the Trevi Fountain is tossing a coin into the water. It is said that whoever throws a coin into the fountain, turning their back, will surely return to Rome. Every year, around 1.5 million euros in coins are collected, which are donated to Caritas to help the needy. Over the years, the Trevi Fountain has undergone several restorations to preserve its beauty and integrity. The last major restoration was completed in 2015, thanks to the funding of the fashion house Fendi, which contributed 2.2 million euros.
The Trevi Fountain is not only one of the most visited tourist attractions in Rome, but also a symbol of the city's rich history and culture. With its magnificence and traditions, it continues to enchant and fascinate visitors from all over the world.
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The Trevi Fountain is the largest and most famous fountain in Rome. Built on the facade of Palazzo Poli by Nicola Salvi, the competition announced by Pope Clement XII in 1731 was initially won by the French sculptor Lambert-Sigisbert Adam but the assignment was subsequently passed to Salvi. Continue and learn more on Wikipedia
The Trevi Fountain: A Masterpiece of Roman Baroque – La Fontaine de Trevi : un chef-d’œuvre du baroque romain – La Fontana de Trevi: una obra maestra del barroco romano – A Fonte de Trevi: uma obra-prima do barroco romano – Der Trevi-Brunnen: ein Meisterwerk des römischen Barocks – Đài phun nước Trevi: kiệt tác của thời La Mã Baroque
The text of the post was written with the help of Copilot, a virtual assistant based on artificial intelligence. References: – https://www.viaggiamo.it/fontana-di-trevi-storia-descrizione – https://arteinbreve.it/la-fontana-di-trevi-breve-spiegazione – https://www.archeoroma.it/siti/fontana-di-trevi/ – https://www.scopriroma.com/fontana-di-trevi
Discovering the Obelisk of Minerva Rome, the Eternal City, is a treasure trove of history and culture that reveals itself at every corner. Among the wonders that fascinate visitors from all over the world, there is a little-known jewel that stands majestically near the famous Piazza della Minerva: the Obelisk of Minerva. The obelisk, which is over 5 meters tall, was originally carved in Ancient Egypt and placed in the Temple of Isis in Sais. However, its journey to Rome took place only in 1667, when Pope Alexander VII decided to place it in front of the Church of Santa Maria sopra Minerva. The famous sculptor Gian Lorenzo Bernini was commissioned to create a decorative base to support the obelisk. The base of the obelisk is adorned with an elephant, a brilliant work by Bernini. This majestic animal supports the obelisk with its strong back, and every detail is made with extraordinary precision. The choice of the elephant as a support symbolizes strength and stability. The presence of the obelisk in front of the Church of Santa Maria sopra Minerva is not accidental. Minerva, the Roman goddess of wisdom and war, is represented inside the church, and the obelisk underlines the importance of this mythological figure. If you have the opportunity to visit Rome, do not miss the opportunity to admire this masterpiece. Stroll through the Piazza della Minerva, admire the extraordinary fusion between the ancient and the baroque, and discover the unique details that make this place so special. The Obelisk of Minerva is more than just a monument; it is a fascinating piece of Rome’s history. Next time you find yourself in the Eternal City, stop by and be enchanted by the beauty and history this extraordinary place has to offer.
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The Obelisk of Minerva is one of the nine Egyptian obelisks of Rome, located in the Piazza della Minerva (the square of the Basilica of Santa Maria sopra Minerva). The obelisk is positioned on the back of a marble elephant, sculpted by Ercole Ferrata based on a design by Bernini in 1667; the entire monumental complex is also popularly known as the Pulcin della Minerva: “pulcino” in the dialect of the time meant “porcino”, referring to the elephant “for its small size and round shape”. Continue and learn more on Wikipedia
Discovering the Minerva Obelisk: a hidden treasure in Rome – À la découverte de l’Obélisque de Minerve : un trésor caché à Rome – Descubriendo el Obelisco de Minerva: un tesoro escondido en Roma – Descobrindo o Obelisco de Minerva: um tesouro escondido em Roma – Entdecken Sie den Minerva-Obelisken: einen verborgenen Schatz in Rom – Khám phá Minerva Obelisk: kho báu ẩn giấu ở Rome – 发现密涅瓦方尖碑：罗马隐藏的宝藏 – ミネルヴァ オベリスクの発見: ローマの隠された宝物
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The apse ceiling of Santa Maria sopra Minerva in Rome. Santa Maria sopra Minerva is one of the most important churches in Rome and is located near the Pantheon, in the Pigna district. Built in the 13th century by the Dominican Friars, it is one of the rare examples of Gothic architecture in Rome, famous for its history, art and architecture. The basilica stands on a site that was previously occupied by a pagan temple, initially attributed to the goddess Minerva, but which was actually dedicated to Isis. The name "sopra Minerva" derives from this ancient belief. The construction of the Gothic church began in 1280 and was completed at the beginning of the 14th century. Over the centuries, the church has undergone numerous modifications and restorations, while maintaining its Gothic character.
The interior of Santa Maria sopra Minerva is richly decorated and maintains its original Gothic structure. It has a three-nave plan with pointed arches and vaulted ceilings. The side aisles house several richly decorated chapels with important works of art.
The apse ceiling is particularly impressive, with a ribbed vault richly decorated with bright colors and intricate patterns. In the center of the apse is a large painting depicting religious scenes, which helps create a solemn and evocative atmosphere.
Other Elements of Interest are: the Funeral Monument of Saint Catherine of Siena (Saint Catherine of Siena is buried in the basilica, and her tomb is a place of great devotion) and Bernini's Elephant (in the square in front of the church there is an Egyptian obelisk supported by a statue of an elephant, designed by Gian Lorenzo Bernini; this monument is commonly known as the “Pulcino della Minerva”).
Santa Maria sopra Minerva is a place of great historical, artistic and religious importance, representing a unique example in the Roman architectural panorama for its Gothic style and the numerous works of art it houses.
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The Basilica of Santa Maria sopra Minerva (in Latin basilica Sanctæ Mariæ supra Minervam) is a minor basilica in Rome located in the Pigna district, in Piazza della Minerva, near the Pantheon. It is one of the very few examples of Gothic architecture in Rome. The basilica houses the remains of several important figures including Catherine of Siena, proclaimed a Doctor of the Church in 1970, the mystic painter Beato Angelico, proclaimed "Universal Patron of Artists" in 1984 and Pope Benedict XIII. Inside it preserves valuable works of art including frescoes by Melozzo da Forlì and Filippino Lippi. Continue and learn more on Wikipedia
The apse ceiling of Santa Maria sopra Minerva in Rome – Le plafond de l’abside de Santa Maria sopra Minerva à Rome – El techo del ábside de Santa María sopra Minerva en Roma – O teto da abside de Santa Maria sopra Minerva em Roma – Die Apsisdecke von Santa Maria sopra Minerva in Rom – Trần nhà của Santa Maria sopra Minerva ở Rome
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The Nile statue in the Fountain of the Four Rivers in Rome. The Fountain of the Four Rivers is one of the most famous works of the famous Italian sculptor Gian Lorenzo Bernini. It is located in the Piazza Navona in Rome and was commissioned by Pope Innocent X (born Giovanni Battista Pamphilj) in 1648. The fountain is located in the center of the square and is a masterpiece of Baroque art. The fountain takes its name from the four rivers represented in the four giant statues located at the base of the central tower. These four rivers are symbols of four of the then known continents: the Nile for Africa, the Ganges for Asia, the Danube for Europe and the Rio de la Plata for the Americas. The statues are made of marble and each is accompanied by an animal or symbol characteristic of the region it represents. At the center of the fountain is an Egyptian obelisk, an architectural element that was transferred from Ancient Rome to the square by order of Pope Innocent X. The obelisk is crowned by the dove of peace and topped by a gilded bronze globe. This element gives the fountain a remarkable height and grandeur. The Fountain of the Four Rivers is an impressive work that masterfully mixes art, architecture and symbolism, as often happens in Bernini's works. Its creation required a considerable effort of engineering, and the result is one of the most admired and iconic attractions in Rome.
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Bernini’s giants move in gestures full of life and with an irrepressible expressive exuberance. The Nile covers its face with a drapery, referring to the obscurity of its sources, which remained unknown until the end of the 19th century. Continue and learn more on Wikipedia
The statue of the Nile in the Fountain of the Four Rivers in Rome – La statue du Nil dans la Fontaine des Quatre Fleuves à Rome – La estatua del Nilo en la Fuente de los Cuatro Ríos en Roma – A estátua do Nilo na Fonte dos Quatro Rios em Roma – Die Nilstatue im Vierströmebrunnen in Rom – Tượng sông Nile tại Đài phun nước Bốn con sông ở Rome – 罗马四河喷泉中的尼罗河雕像 – ローマの四大河の噴水にあるナイル川の像
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