Fontana del Gigante

This magnificent marble arch is the Fountain of the Giant, also known as the Fountain of the Immacolatella. It was the work of several artists, including Pietro Bernini—the father of Gian Lorenzo Bernini, who became one of Italy’s greatest sculptors. Originally located in Piazza del Plebiscito, it took its name in 1670 when a giant bust of Jupiter, unearthed during excavations in Cuma, was placed beside it. The bust is gone, but the name remains. During renovations of the square, the fountain was moved to stand in front of the Immacolatella Palace—hence its other name—but that location didn’t last long. Port redevelopment forced yet another move, and in 1906 it was placed here, where it enjoys a stunning backdrop of the sea. The fountain’s three arches are topped with coats of arms representing the city, the viceroy of Naples, and the king of the time. At each end stand two caryatids, while the arches themselves are decorated with sea creatures and river gods, a nod to Naples’ enduring connection to the sea.