Wednesday 18 June 2008

Walking tour; Fountain Descriptions

The first fountain during my walk is a fountain designed by Bernini. The fountain is called Fontana Dei Quattro Fiumi. There is a large Egyptian Obelisk located in the center of the fountain. There also two smaller fountains located on either side of the Fontana Dei Quattro Fiumi.  The Piazzo Navona is an oval shape, the other two fountains are located at both ends of the oval.  The second fountain on the walk is located at the Pantheon, in the center of Piazza Della  Rotunda. This fountain was originally designed to be placed in Piazza Navona. The marble fountain is a sculpture of four ugly masks spitting water in four opposite directions. When you look at the fountain from far away, the faces do not look as goofy as they actually are. A close look at this fountain is very interesting, and actually quite comical. The third fountain that you will pass on the walk is called the Fontanelle Del Facchino. This is one Rome's historic talking statues. The water comes out of a barrel held by a porter. It was created in the 16th century. This fountain is a great place to grab a cool drink, during the hot summer months. The water always comes out cool and fresh! The last stop on my fountain walk brings you to the Trevi Fountain, which was completed in 1762. This fountain is considered to be Rome's most famous, and it is also one of the largest. The fountain itself is actually bigger than the Piazza is sits in. The two central figures are Neptune, one of them is mastering a sea horse, while the other is taking control of a more peaceful animal. The fountain symbolizes the two moods of the sea. It is well known myth, that if you toss a coin into the fountain over your shoulder, you will return to Rome at some point in your life. (Facts from Eyewitness Travel Guide, and www.garden-fountains.com)

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