The first free-standing fountain
The first in Rome designed to be seen from all sides — an idea that changed square design after it.
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Bernini's fountain at the centre of Piazza Barberini, carved in 1643 for Pope Urban VIII of the Barberini family. Four dolphins open their tails to carry a scallop shell, and above it the Triton — the sea demigod — raises a conch to his lips and blows a jet of water straight upward. This was the first fountain in Rome designed to be seen from every side, standing free in the middle of a square rather than set against a wall as all before it had been. The idea reshaped Roman squares thereafter. Between the dolphins' tails sit three bees — the Barberini emblem — which you will find carved into every building the family paid for in Rome. Look for them; it is a visual game that follows you across the city. It is free and in the open, steps from Barberini metro and Palazzo Barberini. On the corner of the square stands another small Bernini work: the Fountain of the Bees.
The first in Rome designed to be seen from all sides — an idea that changed square design after it.
Another small Bernini work on the corner of the square — missed entirely by most visitors.
Piazza Barberini, Rome
Galleria Nazionale d'Arte AnticaA Baroque palace built for the family of Pope Urban VIII by three of the sevente2 minutes walk4.7
Santa Maria della Concezione dei CappucciniSix small rooms beneath the Capuchin church, their walls and ceilings decorated 2 minutes walk4.7
The Four FountainsFour fountains in the corners of a street crossing in Rome, set up between 1588 3 minutes walk4.4
Palazzo della ConsultaA late Baroque palace designed by Ferdinando Fuga and completed in 1737 for Pope6 minutes walk4.4
Trevi FountainYou hear it before you see it: water roaring down a narrow lane, and then the vi6 minutes walk4.8Looking for halal food near Triton Fountain? There are several options nearby, from Moroccan and Indian kitchens to quick casual spots and places with a view. Confirm the halal status and opening hours before you go — these can change.
Hotel BaroccoA four-star hotel looking directly onto Piazza Barberini and Bernini's Triton Fo1 minute walk · $$$$4.9The St. Regis RomeRome's oldest grand hotel and its most historic: opened in January 1894 as the G7 minutes walk · $$$$4.8No — but it is unavoidably on your way if you visit Palazzo Barberini, the Capuchin crypt, or use Barberini metro. Stop ten minutes and make it part of the neighbourhood route.