The playful spray of water dances through the air, cascading from the mouths of bronze dolphins. Welcome to the enchanting Turtle Fountain, nestled in the heart of Rome. It’s a masterpiece born not from papal decree, but from a nobleman’s desire to beautify his neighborhood. The Turtle Fountain, or Fontana delle Tartarughe as the Italians call it, was commissioned by a wealthy man named Muzio Mattei. He wanted a fountain for Piazza Mattei, the square where his family resided. Designed by Giacomo della Porta and sculpted by Taddeo Landini, the fountain was completed in 1588. Notice the four youthful figures, or ephebes, gracefully positioned around the central basin. Each one holds a dolphin, their poses a study in elegant balance and dynamism. The fountain wasn’t always adorned with turtles. Originally, those ephebes held up four additional dolphins. Sadly, due to low water pressure from the Acqua Vergine aqueduct, those dolphins were removed and relocated. The turtles were a later addition, gracing the fountain in 1658 during a restoration. Their presence adds a whimsical touch, as if the boys are encouraging the turtles to climb into the basin. The turtles, incredibly lifelike, are believed to be the work of either Gian Lorenzo Bernini or Andrea Sacchi. This touch of playful charm elevates the Turtle Fountain from a simple source of water to a delightful work of art, a whimsical reminder of the ingenuity and artistry that permeates Rome’s historic streets.
Chiesa di Santa Maria dell’Orazione e Morte
Why is this church adorned with skulls and hourglasses? You might ask yourself this question standing before the Chiesa di