Fountain of Neptune facts for kids
The Fountain of Neptune is the name given to many beautiful and grand fountains found in cities around the world. These fountains usually feature a statue of Neptune, who was the Roman god of the sea. He is often shown with his trident (a three-pronged spear) and surrounded by sea creatures like horses, fish, and mermaids.
These fountains are not just pretty decorations; they often tell stories from ancient myths or celebrate the power of water. They were important sources of water for cities in the past and became symbols of wealth and art.
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Who is Neptune?
In ancient Roman myths, Neptune was the powerful god of the sea, storms, and horses. He was similar to the Greek god Poseidon. People believed he controlled the oceans and could cause earthquakes with his trident. Artists often show him as a strong, bearded man, sometimes riding a chariot pulled by sea horses or other mythical creatures.
Many cities built fountains dedicated to Neptune to honor him and to celebrate the importance of water. These fountains often show him in a dramatic pose, commanding the waves or surrounded by other sea figures.
Famous Fountains of Neptune Around the World
There are many famous and impressive fountains named after Neptune. Each one has its own unique design and history, often built by famous artists.
The Fountain of Neptune in Bologna, Italy
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One of the most famous Fountains of Neptune is in Bologna, Italy. It was built between 1563 and 1567 by a sculptor known as Giambologna. This fountain is a masterpiece of art from the Renaissance period. Neptune stands tall in the center, surrounded by mermaids and other figures. It was built to celebrate the election of a new Pope and to show the power of the city.
The Fountain of Neptune in Florence, Italy
Another well-known Fountain of Neptune is in Florence, Italy, located in the central Piazza della Signoria. This fountain was created by Bartolommeo Ammanati and his workshop between 1560 and 1574. It was built to celebrate the marriage of Francesco I de' Medici and Joanna of Austria. The locals sometimes call it Il Biancone, which means "The Big Whitey," because of the white marble used for Neptune's statue.
The Fountain of Neptune in Rome, Italy
Rome, the capital of Italy, has more than one Fountain of Neptune. One is located at the northern end of Piazza Navona. This fountain was originally built in the 17th century, but the statues of Neptune fighting an octopus and other sea creatures were added much later, in the 19th century, by artists Antonio della Bitta and Gregorio Zappalà. Another Fountain of Neptune is found in Piazza del Popolo. The famous Trevi Fountain in Rome also features Neptune as its central figure.
Other Notable Fountains of Neptune
Many other cities around the world also have beautiful fountains dedicated to Neptune. Each one adds to the unique history and beauty of its city.
- Neptunbrunnen (Neptune fountain) in Berlin, Germany.
- Neptune's Fountain, Gdańsk in Poland.
- Fountain of Neptune, Madrid in Spain.
- Fountain of Neptune, Messina in Italy, by Giovanni Angelo Montorsoli.
- Fountain of Neptune, Naples in Italy.
- Fountain of Neptune, Santiago de Chile in Chile.
- Fountain of Neptune, Trento in Italy.
- Fountain of Neptune, located on the Schönbrunn Palace grounds, Vienna in Austria.
See also
In Spanish: Fuente de Neptuno para niños
Images for kids
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Trento Cathedral with the Fountain of Neptune.
