Turtle Fountain

The Fountain of the Turtles

The Rome audio-guided tour takes you to a small discreet square that houses one of the most beautiful fountains of the city: the Fountain of the Turtles.

From dolphins to turtles

When the Aqua Virgo aqueduct was restored in the sixteenth century, water returned in abundance to Rome and many fountains came into being. This one was originally supposed to represent four young men supporting four dolphins. But the water pressure did not allow the water to spring through the silhouette of the dolphins, which were finally installed elsewhere, then lost. To fill the space left free, turtles were added later, attributed to Bernini. A more romantic legend has it that the duke of Mattei, eager to impress his future in-laws, had this marvellous fountain built in a single night under the windows of his beloved; the father, dazzled by this gesture, is said to have then granted him his blessing. Delicate and full of charm, the Fountain of the Turtles is one of the hidden jewels of Rome.

What there is to see

The Fountain of the Turtles charms with its bronze figures, its young men and its turtles attributed to Bernini, on an intimate and discreet square. Between construction adventures and romantic legend, it is one of the most delicate fountains of Rome. It is a hidden jewel, to discover away from the crowds.

Practical information

The Fountain of the Turtles is on a small square in the centre of Rome, in the ghetto district, not far from Trastevere. In free access at all hours, it can be discovered along the walk.

Why is the fountain called of the Turtles?

Because of the bronze turtles, added later and attributed to Bernini, to fill the space left by the dolphins originally planned.

What legend surrounds the Fountain of the Turtles?

It is said that the duke of Mattei had it built in one night to impress his future in-laws and obtain a blessing.