A Monument to Bernini's Genius: The Four Rivers Fountain

River Ganges carries a long oar, representing the river's navigability

Piazza Navona ⭐is home to three iconic fountains, each with its unique history and artistic significance:

1. Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi (Fountain of the Four Rivers): The most famous and imposing fountain in the square, designed by Gian Lorenzo Bernini and completed in 1651. 
2. Fontana del Moro (Moor Fountain): Located at the southern end of the square, the Fontana del Moro was originally designed by Giacomo della Porta in the 16th century. 
3. Fontana di Nettuno (Neptune Fountain): Situated at the northern end of the square, the Fontana di Nettuno was completed in 1878 by Antonio della Bitta. 

These three fountains, each with its distinct style and symbolism, have become integral landmarks of Piazza Navona, contributing to its vibrant atmosphere and historical significance.

The Four Rivers Fountain (YouTube link)

Fountain of the Four Rivers

Fountain of the Four Rivers features four colossal statues representing the four major rivers of the known continents at the time: the Nile (Africa), the Danube (Europe), the Ganges (Asia), and the Río de la Plata (Americas). The fountain is surmounted by an Egyptian obelisk, symbolizing the universal reach of papal authority.

From the center of a basin, travertine rocks gracefully ascend to support four majestic river gods. Above them, a replica of an Egyptian obelisk stands tall, crowned by the Pamphili family emblem, a dove clutching an olive twig. This harmonious arrangement symbolizes the four major rivers that span the four continents, each representing the far-reaching influence of papal authority: the Nile, the lifeblood of Africa; the Danube, a lifeline through Europe; the Ganges, a revered waterway of Asia; and the Río de la Plata, a symbol of the Americas.

Sant'Agnese in Agone (Baroque church)

River Ganges (left) and River Niles (right)

River Danube (left) and River Ganges (right)

The Fountain of the Four Rivers with the Obelisco Agonale

Moor Fountain

It underwent modifications by Bernini in the 17th century, who added the figure of a Moor wrestling with a dolphin. The fountain's name derives from the Moorish figure, which was a popular subject in Renaissance art.

Meghan Klemm, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Neptune Fountain

It features a dramatic sculpture of the sea god Neptune battling an octopus, surrounded by sea nymphs and tritons. The fountain's design reflects the Neoclassical style that was prevalent in 19th-century Rome.