Contarini Fountain
A historic 18th-century fountain in Bergamo's Piazza Vecchia, offering refreshing drinkable water and a picturesque centerpiece.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Fewer crowds, golden light
Contarini Fountain
Best Time
Fewer crowds, golden light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic 18th-century fountain in Bergamo's Piazza Vecchia, offering refreshing drinkable water and a picturesque centerpiece.
"Charming water fountain from the 1700s right in the middle of Piazza Vecchia. You can drink from the water streaming from the two small sphinxes."
💧 Drinkable Water!
Don't hesitate to drink from the fountain's spouts – it's cold, refreshing, and a local perk! :droplet:
📸 Perfect Photo Spot
Capture the fountain with the surrounding historic buildings for iconic Bergamo shots. :camerawithflash:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Contarini Fountain's Lion Spouts
Piazza Vecchia
Admire the historic 1780 fountain, adorned with lion figures, offering a cool drink on a warm day.
Piazza Vecchia Ambiance
Bergamo's Upper City (Città Alta)
The fountain is central to this stunning medieval square, surrounded by historic buildings and vibrant life.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Piazza Vecchia Vibe
Hydration Station Alert!
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
💧 Drinkable Water!
Don't hesitate to drink from the fountain's spouts – it's cold, refreshing, and a local perk! :droplet:
📸 Perfect Photo Spot
Capture the fountain with the surrounding historic buildings for iconic Bergamo shots. :camerawithflash:
🚶♀️ Explore Città Alta
The fountain is a highlight, but explore the entire upper city for a full experience. :walking:
🦁 Lion Details
Notice the intricate lion figures on the fountain; they're a key part of its historical charm. :lion:
Tips
from all over the internet
💧 Drinkable Water!
Don't hesitate to drink from the fountain's spouts – it's cold, refreshing, and a local perk! :droplet:
📸 Perfect Photo Spot
Capture the fountain with the surrounding historic buildings for iconic Bergamo shots. :camerawithflash:
🚶♀️ Explore Città Alta
The fountain is a highlight, but explore the entire upper city for a full experience. :walking:
🦁 Lion Details
Notice the intricate lion figures on the fountain; they're a key part of its historical charm. :lion:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the Contarini Fountain a charming and historic centerpiece of Bergamo's Piazza Vecchia. Its ability to provide refreshing, drinkable water is a delightful surprise for many. While the fountain itself is appreciated, the overall experience is greatly enhanced by the stunning medieval square and surrounding architecture.
"Charming water fountain from the 1700s right in the middle of Piazza Vecchia. You can drink from the water streaming from the two small sphinxes. Cold and refreshing even in the bright afternoon sun because the marble stones."
Julie Pan
"The old square (Piazza Vecchia) is close to the Palazzo della Regione, which was the seat of the government."
Avihay Froochzad
"Amazing fountain dated from 1780. Located in the beautiful Piazza Vecchia"
Diego Costa
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Contarini Fountain is located in Piazza Vecchia, the main square of Bergamo's Città Alta (Upper City). You can reach Città Alta by funicular from the lower city, by bus, or by walking up. Once in Piazza Vecchia, the fountain is impossible to miss! 
Yes, Città Alta is very walkable, with charming cobblestone streets. The Contarini Fountain is centrally located in Piazza Vecchia, making it easily accessible on foot.
Private vehicles are generally restricted in Città Alta to preserve its historic character. It's best to park in the lower city and take the funicular or walk up.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Contarini Fountain is located in the public Piazza Vecchia, so there is no admission fee to see it.
Piazza Vecchia and the Contarini Fountain are accessible at all times, as it's a public square. However, surrounding attractions may have specific hours.
To experience the fountain with fewer people, aim for early mornings or late afternoons. Evenings also offer a magical ambiance.
📸 📸 Photography
Try framing the fountain with the Palazzo della Ragione or the Biblioteca Civica Angelo Mai in the background for classic shots. Early morning light is excellent.
Absolutely! The fountain and Piazza Vecchia are beautifully illuminated at night, creating a romantic and atmospheric setting for photography.
Generally, there are no restrictions on personal photography in Piazza Vecchia. Be mindful of other visitors and any temporary event setups.
🎫 💧 Water & Refreshments
Yes, the water from the Contarini Fountain is potable and a popular spot for locals and tourists to refill their water bottles.
Piazza Vecchia and the surrounding streets in Città Alta are lined with cafes, restaurants, and bars offering a variety of refreshments.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
📸 Photographers
+1Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Significance of the Contarini Fountain
Its placement in Piazza Vecchia, the historic heart of Bergamo's Città Alta, underscores its role not just as a water source but as a focal point for civic life and social gatherings. The surrounding architecture, including the Palazzo della Ragione and the Biblioteca Civica Angelo Mai, adds to the fountain's historical context and visual appeal.
Today, the fountain continues to serve a practical purpose, offering refreshing, drinkable water to visitors and locals alike. It remains a beloved landmark, inviting people to pause, hydrate, and appreciate the timeless beauty of Bergamo's upper city.
Experiencing Piazza Vecchia: More Than Just a Fountain
Visitors often describe the atmosphere as warm and intimate, especially in the evenings when the square is illuminated. It's a place where you can simply sit, watch the world go by, and absorb the rich history. The Campanone (Civic Tower) also overlooks the piazza, offering panoramic views for those who ascend its stairs.
Beyond the fountain and historic buildings, Piazza Vecchia is dotted with cafes and restaurants, making it the perfect spot to enjoy an aperitivo or a meal while soaking in the ambiance. The blend of historical grandeur and lively present-day activity makes it an unforgettable experience.
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