Fontana di Rosello Sassari
A 17th-century Renaissance fountain, a symbol of Sassari, featuring seasonal statues and monthly spouts, nestled in a valley.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden hour light enhances beauty
Fontana di Rosello Sassari
Best Time
Golden hour light enhances beauty
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 17th-century Renaissance fountain, a symbol of Sassari, featuring seasonal statues and monthly spouts, nestled in a valley.
"Beautiful but neglected, a symbol of Sassari with great potential."
Steep Path Ahead
Be prepared for a steep, overgrown path down to the fountain. Wear sturdy shoes! :athletic_shoe:
Look for the Bridge
The fountain is located beneath the Ponte Rosello, a Fascist-era bridge. :world_map:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Fountain Itself
Valle del Rosello
A 17th-century masterpiece with 12 spouts representing months and 4 statues for seasons.
+1
Symbol of Sassari
Recognized as a key symbol of the city, even featured on stamps.
+1
LEGO Recreation
An impressive LEGO model showcases the fountain's intricate design.
+1Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Finding the Fountain
Restoration Needs
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Steep Path Ahead
Be prepared for a steep, overgrown path down to the fountain. Wear sturdy shoes! :athletic_shoe:
Look for the Bridge
The fountain is located beneath the Ponte Rosello, a Fascist-era bridge. :world_map:
Bring Your Camera
Capture the intricate details and unique setting of this historic landmark. :camerawithflash:
Check for Renovations
The fountain may be undergoing restoration; check local updates. :construction_worker:
Tips
from all over the internet
Steep Path Ahead
Be prepared for a steep, overgrown path down to the fountain. Wear sturdy shoes! :athletic_shoe:
Look for the Bridge
The fountain is located beneath the Ponte Rosello, a Fascist-era bridge. :world_map:
Bring Your Camera
Capture the intricate details and unique setting of this historic landmark. :camerawithflash:
Check for Renovations
The fountain may be undergoing restoration; check local updates. :construction_worker:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the Fontana di Rosello architecturally beautiful and historically significant, a true symbol of Sassari. However, many are disappointed by its neglected state, steep and overgrown access path, and lack of informational signage, viewing it as a missed opportunity with great potential.
"A beautiful and ornate fountain. If I am honest it needs some restoration. However, most cities have neglected historical attractions. It is worthy of a visit due to its architectural importance."
Alan Farquhar
"The fountain is supposedly one of the main symbols of Sassari.
What a pity then to find it under a bridge in the middle of nowhere with weeds and potholes to face, and no other visitors."
David Smith
"Although the fountain is architecturally beautiful and its history is impressive, the lack of signage and absence of any informational plaques take away much of its charm. The site appears quite neglected; the path leading down is steep and overgrown with tall grass. Proper lighting and a few benches would help give this place the character it deserves. Overall, a missed opportunity with great potential."
Rafał Zieliński
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Fontana di Rosello is located in the Valle del Rosello, beneath the Ponte Rosello. Access involves a steep path that can be overgrown, so wear comfortable shoes. It's not in the city center, so you might need a car or a taxi to get close, though some locals mention walking from the city center is possible if you're up for it.
It can be surprisingly easy to miss as it's situated on the outskirts of the old city, at the bottom of a hill and somewhat hidden from plain view. Look for the Ponte Rosello and then descend into the valley.
Many visitors recommend making the effort to go down the hill to see the fountain up close, even if it seems a bit out of the way. The effort is rewarded by the details you can appreciate.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Fontana di Rosello is an outdoor public monument and does not have an entrance fee. You can visit it freely.
As an outdoor monument, the Fontana di Rosello is accessible at all times. However, visiting during daylight hours is recommended for better visibility and safety on the path.
No booking is required as it's a free public monument.
📸 📸 Photography
Late afternoon, during the golden hour, can offer beautiful lighting to highlight the fountain's architecture.
Try capturing the fountain from below, looking up towards the Ponte Rosello, or from the sides to get the full effect of its structure and the surrounding valley.
A smartphone with good low-light capabilities or a DSLR camera will work well. The intricate details are best captured with a lens that can focus closely.
🎫 🏛️ History & Architecture
The Fontana di Rosello was constructed between 1603 and 1606 by Genoese artisans in a late Renaissance style.
The four statues at the corners represent the seasons, while the twelve spouts, known as 'cantaros,' symbolize the months of the year.
It's a historically significant monument and a prominent architectural feature that has been recognized as a symbol of the city, even being featured by the Italian Post Office.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1 The LEGO model, if you can find information or images of it, might also spark interest. +1Consider combining this visit with a more accessible activity in Sassari to ensure a balanced family outing. The lack of amenities like restrooms or play areas directly at the fountain means it's more of a quick stop for appreciation rather than an extended family outing.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Explorers
Be prepared for the descent and ascent, and bring your camera to capture the unique setting.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Architectural Significance of Fontana di Rosello
+1 Its design is rich with symbolism, featuring four statues representing the seasons and twelve water spouts, or 'cantaros,' signifying the months. +1 This intricate detailing not only showcases artistic prowess but also reflects a deep connection to the cycles of nature and time, making it a historically significant piece for Sassari. Originally built to serve as a vital water source for the surrounding area, the fountain's function was as crucial as its aesthetic appeal.
Its construction was funded by a public tax of a thousand scudi, highlighting its importance to the community at the time. Despite its historical and architectural merit, the fountain's current state has led some visitors to note its need for restoration and better upkeep, a sentiment echoed in traveler reviews. Despite the challenges of its location and condition, the Fontana di Rosello remains a point of local pride and a testament to Sassari's rich past.
The existence of detailed LEGO recreations further emphasizes its iconic status and the affection locals hold for this unique monument. +1 It's a place that, with a little more attention, could truly shine as a celebrated historical attraction. Navigating the Location and Visitor Experience
Travelers often express a mix of admiration for the fountain's beauty and disappointment with its surroundings.
Despite these criticisms, many still recommend making the effort to visit, emphasizing that the fountain's details are best appreciated up close.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit