Fontana della Barcaccia translates to “Fountain of the Old Boat”. It is a Baroque fountain located in the Piazza di Spagna in Rome, Italy. It is found directly below the famous Spanish Steps. This fountain was commissioned by Pope Urban VIII. Pietro Bernini and his son Gian Lorenzo Bernini were the creators of this fountain; it was completed in 1627.
Before the river walls were built, the Tiber River often flooded. Sometime in 1598, Piazza di Spagna suffered from a major flood. When the water receded, it was revealed that there was a boat left behind in the square. Because of this event, it was decided that the fountain would resemble a sinking ship. This fresh water fountain got its name because of the fact that it is shaped like a half- sunken ship that has water overflowing from the sides.
Works Cited
"Barcaccia Fountain." Barcaccia Fountain. N.p., n.d. Web. 27 Mar. 2014.
"Ecotouroma." Ecotouroma. N.p., n.d. Web. 27 Mar. 2014.
Before the river walls were built, the Tiber River often flooded. Sometime in 1598, Piazza di Spagna suffered from a major flood. When the water receded, it was revealed that there was a boat left behind in the square. Because of this event, it was decided that the fountain would resemble a sinking ship. This fresh water fountain got its name because of the fact that it is shaped like a half- sunken ship that has water overflowing from the sides.
Works Cited
"Barcaccia Fountain." Barcaccia Fountain. N.p., n.d. Web. 27 Mar. 2014.
"Ecotouroma." Ecotouroma. N.p., n.d. Web. 27 Mar. 2014.