Fontana delle Tartarughe, Rome

The Turtle Fountain (Fontana delle Tartarughe) is one of Rome’s most charming and elegant fountains, located in the small but lively Mattei Square in the historic Jewish Ghetto district. Built at the turn of the 17th century, between 1581 and 1588, the fountain is attributed to the architect Giovanni Fontana, with the bronze turtles added later by the sculptor Giovanni Lorenzo Bernini or his workshop. Its graceful design reflects the artistic spirit of the Renaissance and early Baroque periods, blending harmony, symmetry, and playful details in a compact urban setting.

The fountain features four young male figures, called putti, who are poised on the corners of a square basin and appear to be lifting dolphins, which spout water from their mouths into the basin below. This elegant composition is enhanced by the small, circular turtles that seem to climb the sides of the fountain, giving the fountain its distinctive and whimsical name. The turtles were added later to prevent the water from splashing outside the basin and to add a lively touch, symbolizing longevity and prosperity in Roman culture.

The Turtle Fountain is more than just a work of art; it is also a reflection of the historical and social context of its time. Mattei Square, where it stands, was a private square owned by the powerful Mattei family, who commissioned the fountain to display their wealth and taste. Despite its modest size, the fountain’s delicate proportions and playful charm have made it a favorite subject for painters, photographers, and visitors alike, preserving the intimate atmosphere of a Roman piazza that feels tucked away from the bustle of the city.