
Museo dell'Acqua Vergine Rome
Discover the Aqua Virgo, an ancient Roman aqueduct still supplying the Trevi Fountain, hidden beneath a modern department store.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Fewer crowds, more serene

Museo dell'Acqua Vergine Rome
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more serene
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover the Aqua Virgo, an ancient Roman aqueduct still supplying the Trevi Fountain, hidden beneath a modern department store.
"An ancient Roman aqueduct, still functioning and supplying the Trevi Fountain, hidden beneath a modern department store!"

🛍️ Shop and See History
Combine your visit with shopping at La Rinascente for a unique historical and retail experience.
💧 Trevi Fountain Link
Learn how this aqueduct still feeds the famous Trevi Fountain, a marvel of ancient engineering.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Ancient Aqua Virgo Aqueduct
Beneath La Rinascente, Via del Tritone
Step back in time to witness an ancient Roman aqueduct, still functional and supplying the Trevi Fountain.

Connection to Trevi Fountain
Visible from the exhibition area
Understand the vital link between this ancient water source and Rome's most iconic fountain.

Modern Setting, Ancient Marvel
La Rinascente Department Store
Experience the striking contrast of a 2000-year-old aqueduct preserved within a contemporary shopping space.
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Planning Your Visit
Discover Rome's Hidden Aqueduct
Timing Your Visit to the Aqua Virgo
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Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🛍️ Shop and See History
Combine your visit with shopping at La Rinascente for a unique historical and retail experience.
💧 Trevi Fountain Link
Learn how this aqueduct still feeds the famous Trevi Fountain, a marvel of ancient engineering.
📸 Capture the Contrast
The juxtaposition of ancient ruins and modern retail is a photographer's dream.
🚶♂️ Easy to Access
Conveniently located in the city center, making it an easy stop during your Rome exploration.
Tips
from all over the internet
🛍️ Shop and See History
Combine your visit with shopping at La Rinascente for a unique historical and retail experience.
💧 Trevi Fountain Link
Learn how this aqueduct still feeds the famous Trevi Fountain, a marvel of ancient engineering.
📸 Capture the Contrast
The juxtaposition of ancient ruins and modern retail is a photographer's dream.
🚶♂️ Easy to Access
Conveniently located in the city center, making it an easy stop during your Rome exploration.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors are consistently amazed by the discovery of an ancient Roman aqueduct, the Aqua Virgo, preserved beneath a modern department store. The continuous flow of water to the Trevi Fountain is a highlight, showcasing incredible ancient engineering. While some find the exhibition area basic, the historical significance and unique setting are widely appreciated.
"500 years old and it looks it.... Originally intended as an exhibition, it's now little more than a fountain for the convenience of the few tourists who pass by on foot, resting on and incorporated into the wall of Palazzo Borromeo, home to the Italian Embassy to the Holy See. Not particularly beautiful or significant today, it was originally designed to accommodate pilgrims heading towards the ancient Via Giulia. Opposite it was a drinking trough. From this corner, you can quickly reach the Villa Giulia museum (a must-see). Check out the photos and videos I've posted and the other reviews I've written about Rome and its wonders, and if I've been helpful, click "helpful.""
Roberto Cecchini
"The monumental Fountain of Pope Julius III is located in Rome's Quartiere III (Pinciano), on Via Flaminia at the corner of Via di Villa Giulia, on the broad, chamfered corner of the 16th-century "Palazzetto di Pio IV."
The Renaissance fountain was commissioned by Pope Julius III (Rome 1487–1555) to embellish his palace. Together with the fountain opposite (which was not the current Fontana delle Conche from 1932), it was intended to serve as a sort of entrance to his splendid Villa Giulia.
The work was created in 1552 by the architect and sculptor Bartolomeo Ammannati (1511–1592).
The fountain features two orders:
The first order consists of a travertine group featuring a grotesque winged mask flanked by two dolphins and a coat of arms above. Water flows from these figures into a rectangular granite basin, with a rounded edge and a flared body, resting on two ornamental feet.
At ground level is a collection basin bordered by travertine strips and paved with porphyry.
Two small columns connected by iron bars mark the clearing, which is very useful for protecting it from damage and for optimal viewing.
The second order is framed by columns with composite capitals, which support a triangular pediment with a coat of arms in the tympanum.
The façade features two plaques, a large rectangular one with the following inscription commemorating the birth of the son Filippo of the nobleman Fabrizio Colonna.
A mixtilinear plaque from 1750 is placed above it, thanking Pope Benedict XIV for the work that had restored the use of the Acqua Vergine spring.
The third tier consists of two Ionic columns supporting an entablature. In the lower center is a plaque commemorating Cardinal Borromeo with the inscription:
CAROLUS CARD BORROMEUS
On the upper tier, between two angels, is the coat of arms of Pope Pius IV."
Stefano Manzo
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Museo dell'Acqua Vergine is located beneath the La Rinascente department store on Via del Tritone. You can easily reach it by public transport, with several bus lines stopping nearby. The nearest metro station is Barberini, which is a short walk away.
Yes, the entrance is within the La Rinascente store. Look for signage directing you to the historical exhibition area. It's a unique experience to find ancient history within a modern shopping mall.
The exhibition generally follows the opening hours of La Rinascente department store. It's best to check their official website or inquire in-store for the most up-to-date hours, as they can vary.
Absolutely! While it's located within a department store, the primary draw is the historical exhibition of the Aqua Virgo aqueduct. You can visit the exhibition without needing to make any purchases.
There are several paid parking garages in the vicinity of Via del Tritone. However, given its central location, using public transport or walking is often more convenient and recommended.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the exhibition area showcasing the Aqua Virgo aqueduct is typically free, as it's integrated into the La Rinascente department store. However, it's always a good idea to confirm this upon arrival or check their official information.
The exhibition is accessible during La Rinascente's operating hours. Visiting during less busy times, like weekday mornings, can enhance the experience by allowing for more focused exploration.
While not always advertised, sometimes guided tours or special events might be organized. It's worth checking with La Rinascente's customer service or looking for local tour operators who might include this site in their Rome itineraries.
Photography is generally permitted for personal use, allowing you to capture the unique blend of ancient and modern. Be mindful of other visitors and store policies.
Most sources indicate that access to the Aqua Virgo exhibition within La Rinascente is free of charge. This makes it an accessible historical site for all visitors.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
You'll see well-preserved sections of the ancient Aqua Virgo aqueduct, dating back to 19 B.C. It's a fascinating glimpse into Roman engineering and how water was supplied to the city, famously still feeding the Trevi Fountain today.
A visit typically takes about 30-60 minutes, depending on your interest level and how much time you spend observing the details and reading the informational displays.
Yes, it can be educational and interesting for children, especially if they are learning about ancient Rome. The visual aspect of seeing an ancient structure within a modern store can be captivating.
While the primary focus is on the preserved aqueduct itself, there are usually informational panels and displays that explain its history and significance. Some exhibits might include visual aids or models.
The Aqua Virgo is one of the oldest Roman aqueducts, built by Marcus Agrippa. Its remarkable longevity means it still supplies water to the Trevi Fountain, making it a continuous link to ancient Rome.
🎫 💧 Water & Fountains
Yes, the Aqua Virgo is still an active aqueduct and continuously supplies water to the Trevi Fountain. This is a testament to the incredible engineering of the ancient Romans.
The Aqua Virgo is the sole source of water for the Trevi Fountain. The water you see flowing in the fountain has traveled through this ancient aqueduct, a journey that began over 2,000 years ago.
No, the water in the exhibition is part of the historical display and not intended for drinking. For drinking water in Rome, look for public 'nasoni' fountains.
While the Aqua Virgo is unique in its continuous function to a famous fountain, Rome has many other historical fountains, some of which are fed by ancient aqueduct systems, though not always continuously.
The tradition of tossing a coin into the Trevi Fountain is said to ensure a return to Rome. Some believe it has roots in ancient pagan rituals of offering to deities.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Tips for families: Visit during less crowded times to allow children to explore without feeling rushed. Encourage them to imagine Roman life and how this water system was crucial. The proximity to other attractions like the Trevi Fountain also makes it a convenient stop for a family outing.
🏛️ History Buffs & Archeology Enthusiasts
Key takeaways: Focus on the construction techniques, the historical context of its creation by Marcus Agrippa, and its continuous use. The exhibition offers a tangible connection to the past, allowing for a deeper understanding of Roman daily life and urban planning.
🛍️ Shoppers & Urban Explorers
Pro-tip: Make it a point to seek out the exhibition while visiting La Rinascente. It's an easy way to add a significant historical dimension to your shopping trip and discover a piece of Rome's past in an unexpected place.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Engineering Marvel of the Aqua Virgo
What makes the Aqua Virgo particularly extraordinary is its continuous operation for over two millennia. Unlike many other ancient Roman structures that have fallen into disrepair, the Aqua Virgo has been maintained and adapted over centuries. This enduring functionality is a rare feat, highlighting the robust construction and the vital importance of water to Roman life.
Today, visitors can witness sections of this ancient marvel preserved beneath the modern La Rinascente department store on Via del Tritone. This unique setting allows for a striking comparison between ancient and contemporary Rome, showcasing how history is layered within the city's fabric. The exhibition provides an accessible way to appreciate this significant piece of Roman heritage.
From Ancient Aqueduct to Modern Retail
This integration offers a powerful visual narrative. Visitors can stand amidst modern retail displays and then turn to gaze upon the stone arches and channels of a 2,000-year-old structure. The contrast is striking and serves as a constant reminder of Rome's deep historical roots. It transforms a routine shopping trip into an unexpected journey through time.
The Aqua Virgo exhibition is a prime example of how historical sites can be successfully incorporated into contemporary urban environments. It demonstrates a commitment to preserving heritage while also catering to modern needs, offering a unique cultural experience that draws both history buffs and curious shoppers alike.
The Trevi Fountain's Lifeline
The connection between the Aqua Virgo and the Trevi Fountain is more than just functional; it's a symbolic link between ancient engineering and Baroque artistry. It highlights how Rome has consistently valued and utilized its historical water infrastructure. The legend of tossing coins into the Trevi Fountain, often linked to ensuring a return to Rome, adds another layer of mystique to this enduring water source.
Understanding this connection enriches the visitor experience. Knowing that the water powering the Trevi Fountain originates from an ancient aqueduct, still functioning after two millennia, adds a profound appreciation for the site's historical depth and the continuous flow of life and water through Rome.
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