Fontana Sturinalto
A stunning 13th-century medieval fountain in Fabriano's Piazza del Comune, known for its unique upward water jet.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Fontana Sturinalto
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A stunning 13th-century medieval fountain in Fabriano's Piazza del Comune, known for its unique upward water jet.
"This beautiful medieval fountain embellishes the town square with its historic buildings and unique jet of water."
📸 Capture the Flow
The 'sturinalto' (upward jet) is key! Try different angles to get the water in motion. :camerawithflash:
🏛️ Admire the Surroundings
The fountain is framed by historic buildings. Take time to appreciate the Piazza del Comune. :classical_building:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The "Sturinalto" Water Jet
Central bronze cup
Witness the iconic upward water flow, the namesake feature of this medieval marvel.
Concentric Stone Basins
Main body of the fountain
Admire the elegant, sloping circular basins crafted from white stone, a hallmark of its design.
Piazza del Comune Setting
Fabriano's main square
Experience the fountain's grandeur amidst historic buildings like the Palazzo del Podestà.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit
Understanding the Name
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Capture the Flow
The 'sturinalto' (upward jet) is key! Try different angles to get the water in motion. :camerawithflash:
🏛️ Admire the Surroundings
The fountain is framed by historic buildings. Take time to appreciate the Piazza del Comune. :classical_building:
💧 Understand the Name
'Sturinalto' means 'sends water upwards.' It's a direct nod to its unique design. :informationdeskperson:
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Capture the Flow
The 'sturinalto' (upward jet) is key! Try different angles to get the water in motion. :camerawithflash:
🏛️ Admire the Surroundings
The fountain is framed by historic buildings. Take time to appreciate the Piazza del Comune. :classical_building:
💧 Understand the Name
'Sturinalto' means 'sends water upwards.' It's a direct nod to its unique design. :informationdeskperson:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Fontana Sturinalto to be a beautiful and historically significant medieval fountain, a charming centerpiece in Fabriano's main square. Its unique upward water jet and elegant stone basins are frequently praised, offering a picturesque scene amidst historic architecture. While generally well-regarded, some may find it a brief stop compared to larger attractions.
"Sturinalto Fountain (1285), designed by Jacopo di Grondolo, who was inspired by the Fontana Maggiore in Perugia."
Marina Om
"Ok"
fabio filipponi
"This beautiful medieval fountain, among the most famous and important in Europe in its typology, embellishes the town square of Fabriano with its historic buildings overflowing with history, with its jet of water on the central cup at the top which gives it its name: studi alto: jet upwards"
francesco mannu
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Fontana Sturinalto is located in the heart of Fabriano's city center, specifically in Piazza del Comune. It's easily accessible on foot if you are already in the town center. If arriving by car, look for parking areas near the historic center and then walk to the piazza.
Yes, it's very easy to find as it's the centerpiece of Piazza del Comune, the main square of Fabriano. You'll likely pass by it if you're exploring the historic town.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Fontana Sturinalto is a public fountain located in the main square, Piazza del Comune. There is no admission fee to view or photograph it.
As it's an outdoor public monument, Fontana Sturinalto is accessible at all times. The surrounding piazza is also always open.
📸 📸 Photography
For the best lighting, aim for early mornings or late afternoons. The 'golden hour' light can beautifully illuminate the stone and bronze elements. Weekdays are also less crowded for unobstructed shots.
Experiment with different perspectives! Getting low can emphasize the upward water jet, while a wider shot from across the piazza captures the fountain within its historic context.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
Commissioned in 1285 and designed by Jacopo di Grondolo, it's a significant medieval fountain inspired by Perugia's Fontana Maggiore. It symbolizes Fabriano's power and prosperity during that era.
The name 'Sturinalto' translates to 'which sends water upwards,' directly referencing the fountain's distinctive upward water jet that culminates in the central bronze cup.
It features three concentric, sloping basins made of white stone, resting on an octagonal base. The uppermost basin is a smaller, cup-shaped bronze element.
The fountain is beautifully situated amidst significant historical buildings, including the Palazzo del Podestà, the Bishop's Palace, and the Loggia of San Francesco, creating a rich historical backdrop.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Tip: Bring a small snack or drink to enjoy while sitting near the fountain. The surrounding area is generally safe and pedestrian-friendly, making it a stress-free stop for families exploring the town. Ensure children are supervised near the water's edge.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Tip: Experiment with long exposures to capture the movement of the water jet. Consider using a polarizing filter to enhance the colors of the sky and stone. Weekday mornings are ideal for avoiding crowds and getting clean shots.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Design and Inspiration
The fountain is constructed with three circular basins that ascend in size, resting on an octagonal base. The lower two basins are crafted from white stone and are adorned with panels featuring semi-columns, adding a touch of classical influence to the medieval structure. The uppermost basin, the smallest, is made of bronze and serves as the culmination point for the upward water flow. This combination of materials and tiered design creates a visually striking monument that has graced Fabriano's central piazza for centuries.
Its strategic location in Piazza del Comune, the historical social and political hub of Fabriano, further enhances its significance. Flanked by important civic buildings like the Palazzo del Podestà and the Bishop's Palace, the fountain is not just an architectural piece but an integral part of the city's historical narrative and urban landscape.
Experiencing Piazza del Comune
When visiting, take a moment to simply sit by the fountain and observe the life of the piazza. You might see locals chatting, children playing, or vendors setting up their stalls. The atmosphere is often lively, especially during local festivals or market days. The architectural harmony of the square, with the fountain acting as a focal point, makes it an ideal spot for leisurely strolls and photography.
For the best experience, consider visiting during the 'golden hour' in the late afternoon when the sunlight casts a warm glow on the stone buildings and the fountain. This time also offers a pleasant temperature for exploring the piazza and its surroundings. Remember to look up at the architectural details of the surrounding palaces to fully appreciate the historical context of this beautiful Italian square.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit