The Fontana Maggiore Travel Guide

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.