Fontana del Bargello (Fontana dei Matti)
Gubbio's Fontana dei Matti offers a unique, lighthearted tradition where you can earn an honorary 'mad license' by circling the fountain three times. ...
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Fontana del Bargello (Fontana dei Matti)
Best Time
Enjoy the tradition fully
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Gubbio's Fontana dei Matti offers a unique, lighthearted tradition where you can earn an honorary 'mad license' by circling the fountain three times.
"Get your 'mad license' at Gubbio's Fontana dei Matti – a fun, quirky tradition for all ages! "
Get Your 'Mad License' 🤪
Circle the fountain 3 times and get splashed with water to officially become a 'mad' honorary citizen of Gubbio!
Official Name: Fontana del Bargello
While known as the 'Fountain of the Madmen,' its official name is Fontana del Bargello.
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The 'Mad License' Tradition
Fontana del Bargello
Circle the fountain three times and get splashed to earn your honorary 'mad license' – a fun, quirky Gubbio tradition!
Fontana del Bargello
Largo del Bargello
This historic fountain, officially Fontana del Bargello, is known for its unique 'madness' tradition and charming location.
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Planning Your Visit
Embrace the 'Madness'!
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Insider Tips
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Get Your 'Mad License' 🤪
Circle the fountain 3 times and get splashed with water to officially become a 'mad' honorary citizen of Gubbio!
Official Name: Fontana del Bargello
While known as the 'Fountain of the Madmen,' its official name is Fontana del Bargello.
Combine with City Exploration
Pair your fountain visit with exploring Gubbio's Piazza Grande and Palazzo dei Consoli for panoramic views.
Fun for All Ages
This quirky tradition is a hit with kids and adults alike, adding a playful element to your trip.
Tips
from all over the internet
Get Your 'Mad License' 🤪
Circle the fountain 3 times and get splashed with water to officially become a 'mad' honorary citizen of Gubbio!
Official Name: Fontana del Bargello
While known as the 'Fountain of the Madmen,' its official name is Fontana del Bargello.
Combine with City Exploration
Pair your fountain visit with exploring Gubbio's Piazza Grande and Palazzo dei Consoli for panoramic views.
Fun for All Ages
This quirky tradition is a hit with kids and adults alike, adding a playful element to your trip.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Gubbio a wonderful place rich in history, with the Fontana dei Matti being a particularly fun and quirky highlight. The tradition of earning a 'mad license' by circling the fountain and getting splashed is a memorable and lighthearted experience that appeals to all ages. While some mention the legend of going mad, most see it as a playful local custom.
"Gubbio is a wonderful place, well worth a visit. Loads of history"
Richard Armstrong
"The legends says if u go around it 3 times and wash with its water then u go mad. And I told this to my children.....they started runing around it.
Hope it is just a legend.😭😭"
Rok Stražar
"Run round 3 times prove you are.mad"
Glyn Rowland
What People Like
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Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Fontana del Bargello is located in Largo del Bargello in the heart of Gubbio. You can reach it by walking through the charming medieval streets of the town. If arriving by car, park in one of the designated parking areas outside the historic center and walk up.
Yes, Gubbio is a popular destination for day trips, especially from cities like Perugia or Assisi. The drive is scenic, and the town's compact historic center makes it easy to explore key attractions like the Fontana dei Matti in a single day.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Fontana del Bargello is a public fountain in a square, so there is no ticket required to view it or participate in the tradition. It's free to enjoy!
As an outdoor public fountain, the Fontana del Bargello is accessible 24/7. However, the tradition of getting the 'mad license' is best enjoyed during daylight hours.
There's no official time, but participating during the day allows you to fully experience the fun and take photos. Some suggest evenings can be magical too, but visibility might be lower.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
To get your 'Patente da Matto,' you need to complete three laps around the Fontana del Bargello and get splashed with its water. Some traditions mention doing this in the presence of a local, but many visitors do it themselves for fun.
The tradition holds that circling the fountain three times and getting splashed with its water will make you 'mad' or grant you an honorary 'mad license.' It's a playful local legend that adds to the charm of Gubbio.
It's a beloved local legend and a fun tourist activity, not a literal certification. The 'license' is more of a playful souvenir of your visit and participation in Gubbio's unique customs.
The fountain is located in Largo del Bargello, near the Palazzo dei Consoli and Piazza Grande, offering stunning panoramic views of Gubbio and its surroundings.
Absolutely! It's a fun and harmless activity that children often enjoy immensely. It's a great way to engage them with local folklore.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the fountain itself, especially with people participating in the tradition. The backdrop of Gubbio's historic buildings, like Palazzo Bargello, also makes for beautiful shots.
Yes, it's quite easy. Many visitors are happy to be photographed participating, and the open square allows for good angles. Consider capturing the action shots of people running around the fountain.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Make it an adventure by letting them lead the laps around the fountain. Afterwards, you can explore the nearby Piazza Grande and enjoy the panoramic views, which are also captivating for younger visitors. Remember to bring a change of clothes if they get too enthusiastic with the water!
Budget Travelers
Combine this free activity with exploring Gubbio's charming streets and enjoying a picnic lunch with local produce. The town itself is a feast for the eyes, offering plenty of historical sights and scenic beauty without an entry fee.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legend of the Fontana dei Matti
+1The tradition is believed to have emerged around the late 1800s and is thought by some to have roots in the ancient 'Festa dei Ceri' (Festival of the Candles), a vigorous procession involving running with large candle-like structures. The act of running around the fountain is seen as a symbolic echo of this energetic local festival. While the 'mad license' isn't an official document, it's a fun way to embrace the spirit of Gubbio and create a memorable travel story.
+1Visitors are encouraged to participate respectfully. While some older traditions mention needing a local to 'baptize' you with the water, many modern interpretations involve self-baptism for fun. It's a simple, joyful ritual that connects you to the town's unique cultural heritage and provides a great photo opportunity.
Gubbio: A City of Traditions
Exploring Gubbio's historic center reveals a wealth of architectural marvels, including the imposing Palazzo dei Consoli, which dominates Piazza Grande. This magnificent Gothic palace offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding valley and houses the Civic Museum. The town's medieval layout, with its steep, narrow streets and stone buildings, transports visitors back in time, making it a captivating destination for history buffs and casual tourists alike.
For those seeking a unique perspective, the Funicolare di Gubbio (cable car) provides a scenic ascent to the Basilica di Sant'Ubaldo, offering even more stunning vistas. Gubbio truly offers a blend of historical depth, lively traditions, and picturesque landscapes, making it a standout destination in Umbria.
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