Fontana del Calamo 13 Cannelle
Ancona's historic Fontana del Calamo, featuring 13 unique faces, is a Renaissance marvel. A free, central attraction.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Fontana del Calamo 13 Cannelle
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Ancona's historic Fontana del Calamo, featuring 13 unique faces, is a Renaissance marvel. A free, central attraction.
"A beautiful fountain in the center of Ancona, a must-see on any itinerary."
💧 Check if water is flowing
The fountain's water doesn't always run. Ask locals or check beforehand for the full experience!
📸 Best photo spots
Visit early or late to avoid crowds and capture stunning shots of the 13 unique faces.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Thirteen Faces
Fontana del Calamo
Marvel at the unique artistry of twelve bronze faces and one stone face, each with a distinct expression.
Historical Architecture
Fontana del Calamo
Admire the Renaissance design of this 16th-century fountain, a testament to Ancona's rich past.
Central Ancona Location
Piazza del Plebiscito, Ancona
Easily accessible in the heart of Ancona, making it a perfect stop during your city exploration.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to Fontana del Calamo
Understanding the Fountain's Charm
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
💧 Check if water is flowing
The fountain's water doesn't always run. Ask locals or check beforehand for the full experience!
📸 Best photo spots
Visit early or late to avoid crowds and capture stunning shots of the 13 unique faces.
📍 Central Ancona gem
Located in the heart of the city, it's a must-see on any Ancona itinerary.
🏛️ Historical context
Attributed to Galeazzo Alghisi, it's a beautiful piece of Renaissance history.
Tips
from all over the internet
💧 Check if water is flowing
The fountain's water doesn't always run. Ask locals or check beforehand for the full experience!
📸 Best photo spots
Visit early or late to avoid crowds and capture stunning shots of the 13 unique faces.
📍 Central Ancona gem
Located in the heart of the city, it's a must-see on any Ancona itinerary.
🏛️ Historical context
Attributed to Galeazzo Alghisi, it's a beautiful piece of Renaissance history.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Fontana del Calamo to be a beautiful and historically significant fountain in the heart of Ancona. Its unique design with thirteen expressive faces is a major draw, though some note that the water doesn't always flow. It's considered a charming and easily accessible landmark that adds to the city's appeal.
"Strolled by this Fountian. It has just been restored. Wish we could see this it flowing. Cool to look at the 13 faces. 12 bronze and one white."
Irene Estlund
"Traditionally the fountain is attributed to Pellegrino Tebaldi, but it is by the architect and engineer (Galasso) Galeazzo Alghisi in 1551. See the book by the undersigned: Ancona, defenses and public buildings in the bookshops of Ancona."
Mastrosanti M
"One of the most beautiful places in the city and the city is beautiful."
Marcos Avilés
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Fontana del Calamo is centrally located in Ancona, making it easily accessible on foot if you're exploring the city center. If arriving by public transport, many bus routes stop near Piazza del Plebiscito, where the fountain is situated.
Parking in the immediate vicinity of the fountain can be challenging due to its central location. It's advisable to use public parking garages in Ancona and walk to the fountain.
Ancona's main train station is a short distance from the city center. From the station, you can take a local bus or a taxi to reach Piazza del Plebiscito, where the fountain is located.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, visiting Fontana del Calamo is completely free! It's a public fountain located in Piazza del Plebiscito, accessible to everyone.
As an outdoor public fountain, Fontana del Calamo is accessible 24/7. However, the best experience is during daylight hours to appreciate its details.
The water flow at Fontana del Calamo is not constant. It's a good idea to inquire locally or check if it's active during your visit for the full visual effect.
📸 📸 Photography
For the best photographic opportunities, aim for early mornings or late afternoons. These times offer softer light and fewer crowds, allowing you to capture the fountain's intricate details without obstruction.
Experiment with different angles to capture the unique expressions of the thirteen faces. Getting closer allows for detailed shots, while a slightly wider view can showcase the fountain within its piazza setting.
While the fountain is accessible at night, photography can be challenging due to lighting conditions. However, if there's ambient lighting, you might capture some atmospheric shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Budget Explorers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Artistry of the 13 Cannelle
These faces are not merely decorative; they represent a fascinating aspect of the fountain's historical context. While the exact symbolism isn't definitively known, the variety of expressions adds a layer of intrigue and artistry. Visitors often spend time admiring each individual face, noting the craftsmanship and the subtle differences between them. The fountain's restoration ensures that these details remain visible and appreciated by contemporary visitors.
When the water flows, it cascades from these expressive mouths, creating a dynamic and engaging spectacle. The sound of the water, combined with the visual artistry, makes the Fontana del Calamo a captivating spot in the heart of Ancona. Its central location in Piazza del Plebiscito also makes it a convenient and memorable landmark for tourists exploring the city.
Exploring Ancona's Historic Center
Beyond the fountain, Ancona boasts a rich history evident in its numerous landmarks. The Ancona Cathedral (Duomo di San Ciriaco), perched on a hill overlooking the Adriatic Sea, offers breathtaking views and a deep dive into the city's past. The historic port area, with its ancient Roman arch (Arco di Traiano), speaks to Ancona's long-standing importance as a maritime city.
Many visitors find Ancona to be an underrated gem, offering a blend of history, culture, and coastal beauty without the overwhelming crowds of more famous Italian cities. The city's authentic character, combined with its accessible historical sites like Fontana del Calamo, makes it a rewarding destination for those seeking a genuine Italian adventure.
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