Fountain of Acqua Paola
An ornate Baroque fountain on Janiculum Hill offering breathtaking, floodlit panoramic views of Rome.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden hour & city lights
Fountain of Acqua Paola
Best Time
Golden hour & city lights
Highlights
Must-see attractions
An ornate Baroque fountain on Janiculum Hill offering breathtaking, floodlit panoramic views of Rome.
"The views from here are absolutely incredible, especially at sunset!"
🚶♀️ Walk from Trastevere
Enjoy a scenic, albeit uphill, walk from Trastevere to reach the fountain and its amazing views.
📸 Capture the Sunset
The fountain is beautifully lit at night, making it a prime spot for evening photography.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Grand Fountain
Janiculum Hill
An ornate marble masterpiece, this iconic fountain offers breathtaking panoramic views of Rome.
Panoramic City Views
Janiculum Hill
Experience unforgettable vistas of Rome's skyline, especially magical as the city lights up at dusk.
Botanical Garden Proximity
Adjacent to the fountain
Explore the nearby botanical gardens for a serene natural escape, a perfect complement to the fountain's grandeur.
Planning Your Visit
Evening Views & Tranquility
Comfortable Footwear Recommended
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Walk from Trastevere
Enjoy a scenic, albeit uphill, walk from Trastevere to reach the fountain and its amazing views.
📸 Capture the Sunset
The fountain is beautifully lit at night, making it a prime spot for evening photography.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Especially during warmer months, carry water as you explore the hill and surrounding areas.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Walk from Trastevere
Enjoy a scenic, albeit uphill, walk from Trastevere to reach the fountain and its amazing views.
📸 Capture the Sunset
The fountain is beautifully lit at night, making it a prime spot for evening photography.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Especially during warmer months, carry water as you explore the hill and surrounding areas.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the spectacular panoramic views of Rome from Janiculum Hill, especially when the Fountain of Acqua Paola is illuminated at night. It's considered a peaceful escape and a beautiful spot for photography. Some find the walk up to be a bit strenuous, and crowds can gather during peak times.
"A stunning fountain on the top.ofnthe hill with a crazy viewpoint.
Fontana dell'Acqua Paola, also known as Il Fontanone, sits proudly atop Janiculum Hill and offers one of the most peaceful, majestic spots in the city. Built in the early 1600s under Pope Paul V, this monumental fountain marks the end of the restored ancient aqueduct Acqua Paola, originally from the Roman Empire.
The architecture is breathtaking—with five large arches, intricate details, and symbols of the powerful Borghese family. The sound of the water flowing into the massive basin is incredibly calming, and the views of Rome from here are unforgettable, especially at sunset.
It's less crowded than more central tourist attractions, making it a perfect place to relax, take photos, and soak in some real Roman history.
Fun fact #1: The Fontanone inspired the design of the famous Trevi Fountain!
Fun fact #2: It was featured in the opening scene of the Oscar-winning film La Grande Bellezza (The Great Beauty).
Highly recommend making the short trip up the hill—this spot captures the magic of Rome in such a quiet, powerful way."
Philippe Laurijssen
"In Piazza Trilussa, you can find the beautiful fountain of Acqua Paola, also known as “fontanone di Ponte Sisto” (large fountain of Ponte Sisto), realized by the architects Van Santen, known as Vasanzio, and Giovanni Fontana and commissioned by Pope Paul V Borghese (1605-1620) in 1613.Conceived as a monumental arch with a central niche flanked by two Ionic columns, the fountain has a high attic holding the Borghese family coat of arms, with eagle and dragon, and a celebratory inscription dedicated to the pontiff, for having led the water on the left bank of the Tiber. Initially, it was located at the end of Via Giulia, which explains the apparent inconsistency of the Latin epigraph on the attic that commemorates that the water brought to the Janiculum Hill was extended in 1613 beyond the Tiber river to be used by the entire City, thanks to the munificence of Paul V. It took its water from the Traiano-Paolo aqueduct.The fountain was dismantled in 1870 for the construction of the banks of the Tiber after a disastrous flood. Almost half of the pieces broke or were dispersed between the various municipal warehouses. When it was rebuilt in Piazza Trilussa in 1898, as commemorated by another inscription on the wall at the back of the large niche, the architect Vescovali was able to use just what was left of it. The result was, however, remarkable: the fountain was reassembled in an elevated position on the top of a fifteen-steps flight, in a straight line with Via dei Pettinari - Sixtus Bridge and in visual connection with the imposing Acqua Paola fountain located on the top of the Janiculum hill."
Misiu martino
"Ornate, charming public fountain in Trastavere. The area is kind of a hub if you're walking to other areas, with stairs going in different directions. It is often crowded, with visitors taking selfies and such.
It would be lovely to visit in the evening, when crowds aren't as an issue, and photo opportunities would improve."
George H
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most popular approach is a walk from the Trastevere neighborhood, which offers a pleasant, albeit uphill, journey. You can also take buses that stop near Janiculum Hill.
Parking in the vicinity can be challenging due to limited street parking and ZTL (limited traffic zones). It's often easier to use public transport or walk.
Yes, several bus lines stop near Janiculum Hill, providing access to the fountain. Check local bus routes for the most convenient options.
The walk from Trastevere involves an incline, so comfortable shoes are recommended. It's generally considered a moderate walk.
Combine your visit with a stroll through the nearby botanical gardens and enjoy the panoramic views from Janiculum Hill.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the fountain and the viewing area on Janiculum Hill are publicly accessible and free to visit.
The fountain area is generally accessible at all times, though it is most impressive when illuminated at night.
There is no entrance fee to enjoy the views from Janiculum Hill or to see the Fountain of Acqua Paola.
Yes, the fountain is beautifully floodlit at night, offering a different, magical perspective of the monument and the city.
As a public monument, general rules of public spaces apply. Respect the area and avoid littering.
📸 📸 Photography
Late afternoon into the evening is ideal for capturing the golden hour light and the city's illumination.
You can capture wide-angle shots of the fountain with the city skyline, close-ups of the ornate details, and panoramic cityscapes.
It can get busy in the evenings, especially during peak tourist season. Weekday mornings offer a more serene photography experience.
Generally, tripods are permitted in public spaces, but it's always good to be mindful of other visitors, especially when it's crowded.
Experiment with different angles from the terrace in front of the fountain to include both the water features and the city backdrop.
🎫 📍 Onsite Experience
You can explore the adjacent Botanical Garden (Orto Botanico) and enjoy the expansive views from Janiculum Hill, which also features the Garibaldi Monument.
Yes, there are benches along the Janiculum Hill terrace, offering comfortable spots to admire the view.
The main viewing terrace is generally accessible, but some paths might be uneven. The walk from Trastevere can be steep.
Restrooms might be available near the Garibaldi Monument or within the Botanical Garden, but it's best to check their operating hours.
There are typically vendors or cafes on Janiculum Hill, or you can find many options in the Trastevere neighborhood before or after your visit.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Significance
This monumental fountain not only served a practical purpose but also became a symbol of papal power and patronage. Its imposing presence on Janiculum Hill made it a prominent landmark, visible from many parts of the city. The water flowing from the fountain was a vital resource, contributing to the development and livability of the area. Today, it stands as a testament to Roman engineering and artistic grandeur, drawing visitors who appreciate its historical context and aesthetic beauty.
Experiencing Janiculum Hill
Adjacent to the fountain is the Orto Botanico, Rome's botanical garden, a tranquil oasis featuring diverse plant collections, greenhouses, and shaded pathways. It's a perfect place for a peaceful stroll, offering a natural counterpoint to the urban vistas. The hill is also home to the Garibaldi Monument, commemorating the Italian unification hero, and the Torre del Melograno (Pomegranate Tower). A daily cannon shot at noon from Janiculum Hill is a unique tradition that echoes across the city.
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