Ponte Sisto
1 / 10

Fontana di Pontecisto

4.5
·212 reviews·Roma, Italy

A grand, reconstructed 17th-century fountain in Piazza Trilussa, serving as a lively gateway to Trastevere's charm.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Summer evenings

Lively atmosphere, perfect for people-watching.

CrowdHigh
Loading map...
Ponte Sisto

Fontana di Pontecisto

Best Time

Summer evenings

Lively atmosphere, perfect for people-watching.

CrowdHigh
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A grand, reconstructed 17th-century fountain in Piazza Trilussa, serving as a lively gateway to Trastevere's charm.

4.5
(212 reviews)

"This fountain is a beautiful aesthetic addition to the environs of the square and a lively spot."

Vertical photo
TIP

Beware of 'Statue' Scammers

Street performers dressed as statues may ask for money for photos. Be cautious and firm if you're not interested. :moneywithwings:

Gateway to Trastevere

Use this fountain as your starting point to explore Trastevere's amazing restaurants and bars. :forkandknife:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Monumental Fountain

The Monumental Fountain

Piazza Trilussa

A grand, reconstructed 17th-century fountain with dragons and classical features, a beautiful backdrop.

Trastevere Gateway

Trastevere Gateway

Adjacent to Ponte Sisto

Marks the entrance to Trastevere, Rome's charming neighborhood known for its nightlife and food.

Summer Night Gatherings

Summer Night Gatherings

Piazza Trilussa

Popular spot for locals and tourists to gather, especially on warm summer nights.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Evening Ambiance & Trastevere Access

This fountain is a lively evening spot, especially in summer. It's a great gateway to Trastevere's vibrant nightlife and eateries. Be aware of street performers who might approach you for photos.

Historical Context & Reconstruction

Originally built in the early 17th century, this fountain was reconstructed in the late 19th century using only about half the original stones. It's a testament to Roman resilience and architectural preservation.

Best Times

When
Summer evenings
Why
Lively atmosphere, perfect for people-watching.
Crowd
High
When
Late afternoon
Why
Transition to evening buzz.
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Memories of a late July night in Rome, dancing on the Ponte Sisto and seeing the Panteon and the Trevi fountain at night. Less than 24 hours in Rome but oh so sweet ❤️ #fyp #foryou #italy #rome #latenightinrome #summernights
@nevenitta
79 likes • 915 views

Beware of 'Statue' Scammers

Street performers dressed as statues may ask for money for photos. Be cautious and firm if you're not interested. :moneywithwings:

Gateway to Trastevere

Use this fountain as your starting point to explore Trastevere's amazing restaurants and bars. :forkandknife:

Un pequeño recorrido en Ponte Sisto (Puente Sisto) Rm 🇮🇹 #roma #tiktokviral #followers #everyone
@aquieconmarilia
41 likes • 1.1K views
reddit.com

What would you do with just an afternoon in Rome?

Evening Vibes

This spot truly comes alive at night, with locals and visitors enjoying the ambiance. :sparkler:

Photo Opportunities

The fountain itself and the bridge offer great photo ops, especially at dusk. :camerawithflash:

reddit.com

Quiet proposal

Tips

from all over the internet

Beware of 'Statue' Scammers

Street performers dressed as statues may ask for money for photos. Be cautious and firm if you're not interested. :moneywithwings:

Gateway to Trastevere

Use this fountain as your starting point to explore Trastevere's amazing restaurants and bars. :forkandknife:

Evening Vibes

This spot truly comes alive at night, with locals and visitors enjoying the ambiance. :sparkler:

Photo Opportunities

The fountain itself and the bridge offer great photo ops, especially at dusk. :camerawithflash:

What Travellers Say

4.5
(212 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors find Fontana di Pontecisto to be a picturesque and historically interesting fountain, serving as a beautiful gateway to the vibrant Trastevere neighborhood. It's particularly praised for its lively evening atmosphere and as a popular gathering spot. Some caution is advised regarding street performers who may solicit money for photos.

"The fountain at Piazza Trilussa was originally built in the late 17th-century along Via Giulia but reconstructed at this location in 1898 by architect Angelo Vescovali. The fountain structure is appealing, features dragons, embedded columns and other classical architectural features. It makes for a nice aesthetic addition to the environs of the square."

Brad

"The Fontana or Fontanone di Ponte Sisto, once known as the Fontanone dei Cento Preti, is an early 17th-century, monumental fountain now located in Piazza Trilussa, facing the south end of the Ponte Sisto, in Trastevere, Rome, Italy. It was reconstructed here in the late 19th century, originally erected across the river, attached to the former building of the Collegio Ecclesiastico.
The fountain in its original position at the southern end of the via Giulia (Giovanni Battista Falda, 1691)In 1587, a hospice for the indigent was established at the north end of the Ponte Sisto by Pope Sixtus V. The building, erected by Domenico Fontana, and included a large chapel or church (no longer extant), dedicated to St Francis of Assisi (San Francesco a Ponte Sisto or San Francesco ai Mendicanti). Originally called the Ospizio dei Mendicanti, the uses of this hospice building altered over the centuries. In the early 1700s, under Pope Clement XI, the male beggars were moved to the hospice at San Michele a Ripa, and a section of the building, entered through the present Via delle Zoccolette, became the hospice or conservatory for the Zitelle Mendicanti (maidens or girls who were beggars). This hospice, called the Zoccolette was established under Pope Innocent XII, and functioned into the 19th century, when it was renamed the Conservatorio di Santi Clemente e Crescentino under the administration by the Padri delle Scuole Pie (Piarists).[1][2] The name Zoccolette was likely derived from the clog, zoccolo, given to the girls to shoe their feet.[3] The portion of the building accessed from the Via dei Pettinari (where it intersected with Via Giulia) became a hospice for indigent retired priests (Ospicio dei Centi Preti), and later became a seminary, the Collegio Ecclesiastico. In the mid-19th century, part of this unit functioned as a military hospital.View shows present relationship of fountain (below) to the fountatin of Acqua Paola (higher up on the Janiculum hill)Depiction of fountain (mid-19th-century) showing relationship to bridge prior to demolition
It was to this latter seminary building, located in rione Regula, that the administration of Pope Paul V (Borghese) decided to build this fountain, in which to funnel water from the Acqua Paola on the Janiculum, across the river through pipes carried by the Ponte Sisto. The fountain built of stone and travertine marble discharged water from various sites: the top basin (still present but no longer participating in hydraulics) was filled by jets above, and then overflowed to the larger basin below. Additionally, water spouted from both the mouths of two lion faces and from dragons (symbols of the Borghese family) carved in to the pedestal of the column bases. The engineering was carried out by Giovanni Vasanzio and Flaminio Ponzio, and the fountain, attached to the façade of the building, was designed by Giovanni Fontana.[4] Previously, the area in front of the fountain was called Piazza San Vincenzo Pallotti. The cost of making the fountain was almost 4000 scudi, estimated in 2006 to be the equivalent of 4 million euros.The fountain at the north bank was disassembled in the late 19th century. During the occupation of Rome by Napoleonic forces in the early 19th century, the papal symbol atop the fountain was removed. By the 1870s, the northern banks flanking the Tiber, a strip of land prone to flooding, were cleared in order to build the Lungotevere, leading to the dismantlement of the fountain in 1879, many of the stones were used for landfill. Over the next decades, this was viewed as an act of cultural hubris, and disrespect for this monument. The council of Rome decided to re-erect the fountain in its new location in 1898, even though the architect Angelo Vescovali could only find about half the original stones of the monument.[6][7] The fountain, now facing the bridge from the opposite bank, is a busy park."

Misiu martino

"The fountain of Ponte Sisto is located just after you cross the bridge of the river Tiber. It was built in 100's and it was attached to a college. From here you can start exploring the neighbourhood of Trastervere with plenty of traditional and innovative eateries and cafes."

Kypriopoulla

What People Like

Beautiful reconstructed fountain
Lively evening atmosphere
Gateway to Trastevere

What People Dislike

Street performer scams

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Fontana di Pontecisto is located in Piazza Trilussa, right at the Trastevere end of Ponte Sisto. You can easily walk here from the historic center of Rome, or take a bus to nearby stops. It's a popular starting point for exploring Trastevere. Reddit

Yes, it's very easy to find. It's prominently situated in Piazza Trilussa, directly across from the Ponte Sisto bridge. You'll likely see it as you approach the Trastevere neighborhood. TikTok

From Termini Station, you can take a bus (like the H bus) towards Trastevere, which will drop you off relatively close to Piazza Trilussa. Alternatively, a taxi or ride-share service is a quick option. Reddit

Yes, it's a pleasant walk from the Pantheon to Fontana di Pontecisto, taking about 20-30 minutes. You'll cross the Tiber River via Ponte Sisto, enjoying scenic views along the way. TikTok

Parking in this area of Rome is very limited and often expensive. It's highly recommended to use public transport or walk, as the neighborhood is best explored on foot. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Fontana di Pontecisto is located in a public square (Piazza Trilussa) and is freely accessible to everyone. There are no tickets or entry fees required. TikTok

As it's an outdoor public fountain and square, it's open 24/7. However, the atmosphere is best enjoyed during daylight hours or in the evening when it's illuminated and lively. TikTok

No, Piazza Trilussa is a public space in Rome, and there is no admission fee to enter or enjoy the fountain and the surrounding area. Reddit

Absolutely! Many visitors find the fountain and Piazza Trilussa particularly charming at night, with a vibrant atmosphere and beautiful lighting. TikTok

Piazza Trilussa is generally accessible, but cobblestone streets and crowds can present challenges. The fountain area itself is at ground level. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Golden hour (just before sunset) offers beautiful light on the fountain and bridge. Evenings are also popular for capturing the lively atmosphere. TikTok+1

Try framing the fountain with Ponte Sisto bridge in the background, or capture it from the steps of Piazza Trilussa. Experiment with different perspectives from across the river too. TikTok

Drone usage in Rome is heavily regulated, especially in historic areas. It's best to check current regulations and obtain necessary permits before flying a drone. Reddit

Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, commercial photography or filming may require permits. Be mindful of people's privacy. TikTok

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the fountain and the bridge. A tripod can be useful for low-light evening shots, but be mindful of crowds. TikTok

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, Fontana di Pontecisto is at the edge of Trastevere, which is packed with fantastic restaurants, trattorias, and pizzerias offering authentic Roman cuisine. Reddit

You'll find a wide range of traditional Roman dishes like Cacio e Pepe, Carbonara, Amatriciana, and Supplì, as well as pizza and gelato. Reddit

Trastevere offers many budget-friendly options, including pizza al taglio (pizza by the slice), small trattorias, and street food vendors. Reddit

Absolutely! Piazza Trilussa and the surrounding streets are filled with bars and cafes perfect for an aperitivo or a glass of wine. TikTok

For popular restaurants, especially on weekend evenings, reservations are highly recommended to avoid disappointment. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Fontana di Pontecisto and Piazza Trilussa offer a lively, open space for families. Kids can enjoy watching the fountain and the general buzz of the piazza. It's a great spot for a casual picnic or an ice cream break before or after exploring Trastevere. Reddit

Be mindful that evenings can get crowded, and while generally safe, keeping a close eye on children is always recommended. The nearby Trastevere neighborhood has many family-friendly trattorias offering classic Italian dishes that kids usually love. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

Fontana di Pontecisto itself is free to visit, and Piazza Trilussa is a fantastic public space to relax and people-watch without spending a dime. TikTokReddit

This area is also an excellent starting point for exploring Trastevere, which is known for its more affordable dining options. Look for 'pizza al taglio' (pizza by the slice) or small, local trattorias for budget-friendly and authentic meals. Reddit

💑 Couples

The Fontana di Pontecisto and Piazza Trilussa offer a romantic setting, especially in the evening. Enjoy a leisurely stroll across Ponte Sisto, admire the fountain, and then head into Trastevere for a charming dinner. TikTok

Consider enjoying an 'aperitivo' at one of the many bars in the piazza or nearby streets as the sun sets, creating a magical atmosphere for couples. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The History of Fontana di Pontecisto

The Fontana di Pontecisto, also known as the Fontanone di Ponte Sisto, has a rich history dating back to the early 17th century. Originally built by Giovanni Fontana, it was designed to funnel water from the Acqua Paola aqueduct on the Janiculum hill across the Ponte Sisto bridge. The fountain was attached to a seminary building and featured impressive architectural elements, including lion faces and Borghese family dragons. It was a significant public work, costing a considerable sum for its time. [^Reviews]

However, the fountain's original location on the northern bank of the Tiber meant it was eventually dismantled in the late 19th century to make way for the Lungotevere embankments. This act was seen by many as a cultural loss. Fortunately, the city council decided to reconstruct the fountain in 1898 at its current location in Piazza Trilussa, facing the bridge. Architect Angelo Vescovali managed the reconstruction, though he could only source about half of the original stones, making the current fountain a partial recreation. [^Reviews]

Today, the reconstructed fountain stands as a beautiful and appealing addition to Piazza Trilussa, a busy park and a popular gathering spot. It serves as a visual reminder of Rome's engineering prowess and its dedication to preserving its historical heritage, even through reconstruction. [^Reviews]

Experiencing Piazza Trilussa and Trastevere

Piazza Trilussa, where the Fontana di Pontecisto is located, is more than just a fountain; it's a vibrant public space. Especially during summer evenings, the piazza buzzes with activity. Locals and tourists alike gather on the steps, enjoying the lively atmosphere, street performers, and the iconic fountain as a backdrop. It's a perfect spot for people-watching and soaking in the Roman ambiance. TikTokReddit

This piazza serves as a crucial gateway to the charming neighborhood of Trastevere. Known for its narrow cobblestone streets, ivy-clad buildings, and a plethora of traditional and innovative eateries, Trastevere is a must-visit. From Fontana di Pontecisto, you can easily wander into Trastevere to discover authentic Roman cuisine, enjoy an aperitivo, or simply get lost in its picturesque alleys. Reddit

Many visitors highlight the energetic nightlife and dining scene in Trastevere, making Piazza Trilussa an ideal starting point for an evening out. Whether you're looking for a budget-friendly meal or a more upscale dining experience, Trastevere offers something for everyone. Reddit