Fontana dell'Acqua Paola

The Basics

The ornate Fontana dell'Acqua Paola—known in Rome as Il Fontanone, or “the big fountain”—is located on the hilltop above Trastevere and is a highlight of many walking or Segway tours of this charming historic neighborhood. Trastevere pizza-tasting tours also often stop at the Fontana dell'Acqua Paola, as do tours of attractions featured in the film "The Great Beauty."

The fountain was commissioned by Pope Paul V to be the first major fountain on the Trastevere side of the Tiber river. Much of the marble used by architect Giovanni Fontana to build the fountain was pilfered from the Roman Temple of Minerva in the Forum of Nerva, and four of the six granite columns on the fountain's facade are from the original St. Peter’s Basilica. The design inspired that of the Trevi Fountain more than a century later.

Things to Know Before You Go

• The view from Fontana dell'Acqua Paola stretches across the historic center of Rome to the Roman Forum, so be sure to bring your camera.

• Walking and Segway tours of Trastevere offer little shade; comfortable shoes, a hat, and sunscreen are recommended.

• Remember that it is illegal to bathe in Rome's historic fountains.

• The fountain and scenic terrace are accessible to wheelchairs and strollers.

How to Get There

The Fontana dell'Acqua Paola is located on Via Garibaldi on Janiculum Hill (Gianicolo) above the Trastevere neighborhood. Since it can be confusing to wind your way through the back streets of Trastevere to the fountain, it’s best to visit with a group or private tour.

When to Get There

Rome is the most popular tourist destination in Italy, which means that its sights can be very crowded in high season. It's best to visit the city in the spring and fall to take advantage of milder temperatures and fewer tourists. If visiting the fountain in summer, time your tour for early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting for photos.

Pope Paolo V

Pope Paul V was a member of the Borghese family and you can see the Borghese symbols of the dragon and eagle worked into the marble decorations on the Fontana dell'Acqua Paola.

Ways to explore

On the hilltop above Trastevere, the “big fountain” is a highlight of many walking or Segway tours of this charming historic neighborhood. Your trek up the steep Janiculum Hill will be rewarded with views across Rome. Trastevere pizza-tasting tours also often stop at the Fontana dell’Acqua Paola. Much of the fountain’s marble was pilfered from the Roman Temple of Minerva, and four of the six granite columns on the fountain’s facade are from the original St. Peter’s Basilica.

Accessibility

The fountain is accessible to wheelchairs and strollers, but the uphill walk may be challenging.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Camera, water bottle, sun protection

What to wear

Comfortable walking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing

Not allowed

Climbing on the fountain, soliciting

Amenities

Great views and people-watching

Address

Like the Trevi Fountain but with fewer crowds, the Fontana dell’Acqua Paola is quite the scene. Explore it on your own or take a guided tour of the charming Trastevere neighborhood.

Driving

The fountain is located atop Janiculum Hill, with limited parking on surrounding streets. Since navigating Trastevere’s winding back streets can be confusing and parking is challenging, use public transportation, take a taxi, or join a guided tour.

Public transportation

Take buses 44, 75, 115, or 870 to reach the fountain area, or take tram lines 3 or 8 to Trastevere/Mastai, then grab a bus connection uphill to the fountain.

Best times to visit

Early morning and early evening offer the best lighting and views.

Best days to visit

Though any day works, weekdays tend to be less crowded than weekends.

Best months to visit

Though spring (April-May) and fall (September-November) offer the most pleasant weather, summer’s longer daylight hours mean lovely evening visits.