The fountain located in the center of Piazza Santa Maria in Trastevere is one of the oldest fountains in Rome, and was likely constructed in the 1400's. Because of this fact, many famous architects have done work on it, to keep it standing and intact. The original builder of this fountain is unknown, but the famous artists Bramante (1444-1514), Bernini (1598-1680), and Carlo Fontana (1638-1714) are all said to have contributed to this fountain.
The location of this fountain is especially important to Trastevere's history. In past times, Trastevere was a relatively poor city and little artistic work was created in or for the area. The building of this fountain however, brought life to the city of Trastevere and has become a famous monument today. Trastevere today is a bustling city, especially at night, and the fountain is a common gather place for many tourists, students and locals.
A wolf and a seashell are seen on this fountain, representing different aspects of Trastevere. A wolf represents intelligence, hunger for freedom, and the importance of social connections. The wolf may also remind the city of its founders, Romulus and Remus, who were supposedly raised by a wolf. The seashell depicted represents prosperity and regeneration, according to the Romans, showing the country's eagerness to grow and advance. Lastly, the letters "SPQR", meaning "the senate and the people" are present on all sides of the fountain, labeling the fountain as belonging to both the government and the Roman people.
Works Cited:
"Fountain of Piazza Santa Maria in Trastevere." A Guide to Rome and Small Town Lazio. N.p., n.d. Web. 27 Mar. 2014.
"Knowing Rome." Fountain in the Piazza Santa Maria in Trastevere. N.p., n.d. Web. 27 Mar. 2014.
The location of this fountain is especially important to Trastevere's history. In past times, Trastevere was a relatively poor city and little artistic work was created in or for the area. The building of this fountain however, brought life to the city of Trastevere and has become a famous monument today. Trastevere today is a bustling city, especially at night, and the fountain is a common gather place for many tourists, students and locals.
A wolf and a seashell are seen on this fountain, representing different aspects of Trastevere. A wolf represents intelligence, hunger for freedom, and the importance of social connections. The wolf may also remind the city of its founders, Romulus and Remus, who were supposedly raised by a wolf. The seashell depicted represents prosperity and regeneration, according to the Romans, showing the country's eagerness to grow and advance. Lastly, the letters "SPQR", meaning "the senate and the people" are present on all sides of the fountain, labeling the fountain as belonging to both the government and the Roman people.
Works Cited:
"Fountain of Piazza Santa Maria in Trastevere." A Guide to Rome and Small Town Lazio. N.p., n.d. Web. 27 Mar. 2014.
"Knowing Rome." Fountain in the Piazza Santa Maria in Trastevere. N.p., n.d. Web. 27 Mar. 2014.