The Fontana Maggiore
The Majestic Fontana Maggiore: A Timeless Symbol of Perugia
Fontana Maggiore: Perugia's Medieval Masterpiece
A medieval fountain in Perugia's heart, Fontana Maggiore showcases exquisite sculptures and celebrates the city's rich history and engineering ingenuity.
The Fontana Maggiore, gracing Piazza IV Novembre in Perugia, is a stunning medieval fountain sculpted by Nicola and Giovanni Pisano between 1275 and 1278. This iconic monument celebrates the arrival of water to the city via a new aqueduct and stands as a symbol of Perugia's prosperity and artistic achievement.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to The Fontana Maggiore
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
Piazza IV Novembre, Perugia, Province of Perugia, 06123, IT
Monday
9 am-7:30 pm
Tuesday
9 am-7:30 pm
Wednesday
9 am-7:30 pm
Thursday
9 am-7:30 pm
Friday
9 am-7:30 pm
Saturday
9 am-12 pm
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Getting There
Walking
Fontana Maggiore is located in Piazza IV Novembre, the heart of Perugia's historic center. From most points within the city center, the fountain is easily accessible on foot. As you approach the piazza, look for the Palazzo dei Priori and the Perugia Cathedral; the fountain sits between these landmarks. No costs are involved.
Public Transport
Piazza IV Novembre is well-served by Perugia's public transport network. Several bus lines stop at Piazza Italia, a short walk from the fountain. From Perugia Train Station (Fontivegge), take bus line E011 to V. Pellini MM, which is a few minutes' walk from the piazza. A single bus ticket costs €1.50. The Minimetrò also provides access to the city center; get off at the Pincetto stop and walk to the fountain. A single Minimetrò ticket costs €1.50.
Taxi
Taxis are available throughout Perugia and can drop you off directly at Piazza IV Novembre. A taxi ride from Perugia Train Station to the fountain typically costs between €8 and €11. Keep in mind that taxi fares may vary depending on traffic and time of day.
Parking
If arriving by car, parking is available in several lots around the historic center. Consider parking at Saba Mercato Coperto (Via Angusta), which is the closest to Piazza IV Novembre, or Saba Piazza Partigiani, which is connected to Piazza Italia by escalators. Hourly parking rates range from €1.40 to €2.40. Be aware that traffic can be heavy near the Covered Market parking.
Local tips
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Visit during the summer months for warm weather and a lively atmosphere in the surrounding cafes and shops.
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Take your time to examine the intricate bas-reliefs and statues, which depict biblical scenes, allegories, and historical figures.
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Walk around the fountain in an anticlockwise direction to better understand the sequence of the lower cycle's panels.
Discover more about The Fontana Maggiore
Fontana Maggiore, the centerpiece of Piazza IV Novembre, stands as a testament to Perugia's medieval artistry and engineering prowess. Created between 1275 and 1278 by Nicola and Giovanni Pisano, father and son, the fountain celebrated the completion of a new aqueduct that brought water to the city's acropolis. Frà Bevignate da Cingoli designed the fountain, while Boninsegna Veneziano, a hydraulic engineer, ingeniously conveyed water from Monte Pacciano without pumps.
The fountain comprises two polygonal basins made of white and pink stone. The lower basin features 25 sides adorned with 50 bas-reliefs depicting scenes from the Old Testament, the founding of Rome, the seven liberal arts, and an agricultural calendar with zodiac signs. The upper basin showcases 24 statues of mythological and historical figures. A bronze cup, possibly a later addition, is topped by a sculpture of three nymphs, also known as water carriers.
The sculptures carry political and allegorical meaning, reflecting Perugia's identity and its support for the Guelph faction. The fountain served not only as a decorative element but also as a symbol of Perugia's newfound prosperity and autonomy as a free commune. Over the centuries, Fontana Maggiore has been refurbished several times, most recently in 1995-99, to preserve its beauty for generations to come.
A brief summary to The Fontana Maggiore
Use Tower Bridge as your starting point for nearby food, family ideas, nightlife, and more local discoveries.
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