Fontana Ferdinandea, Matera Travel Guide

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A stunning 19th-century Baroque fountain in Matera's central square, Fontana Ferdinandea commemorates royalty and provides a serene gathering place.

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Fontana Ferdinandea

Located in Piazza Vittorio Veneto, the Fontana Ferdinandea is a beautiful Baroque fountain built in the 19th century to honor King Ferdinand II of Bourbon's visit. It stands as a key landmark, blending classical elements with local artistry, offering a serene ambiance amidst the bustling square.

A brief summary to Fontana Ferdinandea

Piazza Vittorio Veneto, Matera, Province of Matera, 75100, IT

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Fontana Ferdinandea.

Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and capture the best lighting for photographs.
Take a moment to relax on a nearby bench and soak in the atmosphere while observing local life.
Explore the charming shops and eateries in the surrounding streets to complement your visit.

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Getting There

Walking

Fontana Ferdinandea is centrally located in Piazza Vittorio Veneto, making it easily accessible on foot from most points in Matera's city center and the Sassi. From Piazza Duomo in the Sassi, walk approximately 10-15 minutes through the historic streets to reach the fountain. The route is well-signposted, and the fountain is a prominent landmark in the main square.
Public Transport

Matera's public transport system, managed by Miccolis s.p.a., offers bus routes that stop near Piazza Vittorio Veneto. Check local bus schedules for the most convenient route from your location. A single ticket costs €0.8, or €1.50 if purchased on board. From Matera Centrale Station, several bus lines will take you to Piazza Vittorio Veneto.
Taxi

Taxis are readily available in Matera and offer a direct route to Fontana Ferdinandea. A taxi ride from Matera Centrale Station to Piazza Vittorio Veneto typically costs between €8 and €10 and takes only a few minutes. Taxi stands are located near the train station and other major points in the city. Ride-sharing apps may also be available.
Parking

If driving, several parking options are available near Piazza Vittorio Veneto, including Nicoletti Parking (Via Cappelluti), Piazza Cesare Firrao Parking, and Autoservizi Damasco Parking. These are paid, monitored parking lots. Expect to pay around €1.00 to €1.50 per hour, with daily rates around €10.00. Autoservizi Damasco Parking is the closest, about 50 meters from the Piazza, but requires attention to the ZTL (limited traffic zone). Free parking is very difficult to find near the city center.

Discover more about Fontana Ferdinandea

The Fontana Ferdinandea, situated in the heart of Matera's Piazza Vittorio Veneto, is a captivating example of Baroque architecture and a significant landmark in the city. Erected in 1832, the fountain commemorates the visit of King Ferdinand II of Bourbon, who ruled the Kingdom of the Two Sicilies during that era. The Latin inscription on the fountain's front serves as a reminder of this historical event.Originally, a public water fountain topped with a cross, collecting water from the Castle hill, existed in the square since 1351. It was replaced in 1577 by a similar one, which was later restored and expanded in 1832. The construction of the new aqueduct and fountain was contracted to Gaetano Farina in 1827, with the project lasting five years due to numerous challenges.Historically, the fountain served as a vital water source for the city until the early 20th century. In 1844, a large reserve tank and pump were added to increase water flow during dry periods. Women would gather daily to collect water. However, with the arrival of the Apulian Aqueduct and the installation of public fountains throughout Matera, the Fontana Ferdinandea gradually fell into disuse after 1926.The fountain has faced a tumultuous history, including being dismantled in 1949 and moved to the upper part of the municipal villa in 1958. It was not until April 11, 2009, that the fountain was finally returned to its original location in Piazza Vittorio Veneto, under the order of the city's mayor. Today, the Fontana Ferdinandea is more than just a visual delight; it represents the historical connection between the monarchy and the people of Matera, inviting visitors to appreciate the stories embedded in its stonework.