Fontana del Vecchio
A stunning 15th-century Renaissance fountain, integrated into an ancient aqueduct, offering cool, drinkable water.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant temperatures for exploring
Fontana del Vecchio
Best Time
Pleasant temperatures for exploring
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A stunning 15th-century Renaissance fountain, integrated into an ancient aqueduct, offering cool, drinkable water.
"A beautiful historical artifact that arouses curiosity and interest in tourists."
💧 Drink the Water!
Enjoy the crisp, potable water flowing from the fountain – perfect for refilling your bottle and staying refreshed.
📸 Perfect Photo Spot
Capture the fountain's beauty against the ancient aqueduct. Early morning light is ideal for photos.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Bearded 'Old Man'
Top of the aqueduct
The iconic bearded head spouts cool, drinkable water, giving the fountain its unique name and charm.
Medieval Aqueduct Setting
Corso Ovidio
Marvel at this beautiful fountain integrated into the ancient stone aqueduct, a stunning piece of Sulmona's history.
Renaissance Architecture
Piazza Garibaldi
Appreciate the intricate details of this 15th-century Renaissance masterpiece, a testament to Captain Tiberti's work.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Hydration Station
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
💧 Drink the Water!
Enjoy the crisp, potable water flowing from the fountain – perfect for refilling your bottle and staying refreshed.
📸 Perfect Photo Spot
Capture the fountain's beauty against the ancient aqueduct. Early morning light is ideal for photos.
📜 Historical Context
Learn about its 1474 construction by Polidoro Tiberti and its role in Sulmona's Renaissance.
Tips
from all over the internet
💧 Drink the Water!
Enjoy the crisp, potable water flowing from the fountain – perfect for refilling your bottle and staying refreshed.
📸 Perfect Photo Spot
Capture the fountain's beauty against the ancient aqueduct. Early morning light is ideal for photos.
📜 Historical Context
Learn about its 1474 construction by Polidoro Tiberti and its role in Sulmona's Renaissance.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Fontana del Vecchio for its historical significance, beautiful Renaissance design, and the refreshing, potable water it provides. Its integration with the ancient aqueduct is a unique highlight, making it a picturesque and practical landmark in Sulmona. Some note that while the basin is a later addition, the overall charm and historical value remain strong.
"Set like a gem in the stone of the medieval aqueduct, where Corso Ovidio flows into Piazza Garibaldi, this beautiful fountain is an important testament to the Sulmona Renaissance. It was built in 1474 by Captain Polidoro Tiberti from Cesena. The upper section is the original, while the basin below dates to 1901."
caro Town
"The terminal of the ancient aqueduct. The water reaches us practically freezing, even in the height of summer. It makes you want to dip your hands under the stream and cool off. A beautiful historical artifact that arouses curiosity and interest in tourists."
Roberto Castellani
"Excellent drinking water from this beautiful fountain set in the Mediterranean aqueduct. I add some historical information. The Fontana del Vecchio was built in 1474 by Captain Polidoro Tiberti from Cesena, and is one of the most important testimonies of the Sulmona Renaissance period.
On the slab above there is the inscription:
“POLYDORUS TYBERTUS CAESENAS PRAETOR SULMONIS CLARUS ET INSIGNIS SUB INVICTIS SIMO REGE FERDINANDO QUOI PRAETAER SICILIE REGNUM YTALIAM OMNEM PACE SE (davi) T OPUS HOC NOBILE STRUXIT ET VIAS URBIS STAERNENS MARMORE INCRUSTAVIT MCCCCLXXIIII”.
It takes its name from the bearded head that surmounts the lunette set on the entablature, on which is engraved an inscription with the date and the name of the patron.
The upper part of the original structure, with the entablature and semicircular pediment, has been retained, while the basin, originally made of smooth stone slabs, was replaced with a sarcophagus-style basin in 1901.
The lunette of the pediment features the Aragonese coat of arms carved into the center of a garland of flowers and fruit held by two angels. The frieze below features two coats of arms of Sulmona at the ends, with the initials S.M.P.E.
Two lateral flower-shaped gargoyles complete the fountain, while the acroterion is formed by a bearded head (from which the water flows) between two rosettes joined by a ribbon bearing the inscription "Vechio" (Old)."
Gian Domenico Silvestrone
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Fontana del Vecchio is centrally located where Corso Ovidio meets Piazza Garibaldi in Sulmona, Italy. It's easily accessible on foot within the historic center.
Parking can be challenging in Sulmona's historic center. Look for paid parking lots a short walk away from Piazza Garibaldi.
Sulmona has a train station and bus services. From the station, it's a pleasant walk or a short taxi ride to the fountain.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Fontana del Vecchio is a public landmark and can be viewed and enjoyed for free at any time.
As an outdoor fountain, it is accessible 24/7. However, visiting during daylight hours is recommended for the best experience and photos.
The aqueduct itself is a historical structure integrated with the fountain. There is no separate entrance fee for viewing the fountain or the visible parts of the aqueduct.
📸 📸 Photography
Early morning or late afternoon offers the best light for photography, minimizing harsh shadows and capturing the fountain's details beautifully.
Try capturing the fountain with the aqueduct as a backdrop, or focus on the intricate details of the bearded head and the Renaissance carvings.
Absolutely! The flowing water adds a dynamic element to your photos. Consider using a slightly slower shutter speed to capture its movement.
🎫 💧 Water & Amenities
Yes, the water from Fontana del Vecchio is potable and consistently praised by locals and visitors for its freshness and quality.
Definitely! It's a popular spot for locals and tourists to refill their water bottles, especially during warmer months.
Public restrooms may be available in the vicinity of Piazza Garibaldi, but it's advisable to check local signage or ask for directions.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While there aren't specific play areas, the fountain's historical significance and the refreshing water provide simple, enjoyable moments. Encourage your children to imagine the history behind the aqueduct and the fountain. It’s a chance for a quick, educational, and refreshing break during your family adventures in Sulmona.
🚶 Solo Travelers & Budget Explorers
Its central location makes it an easy landmark to find and a perfect spot to pause, people-watch, and soak in the atmosphere of Piazza Garibaldi. Take your time to admire the intricate details of the fountain and the ancient aqueduct it's part of. It’s a simple yet rewarding experience that adds depth to your exploration without costing a euro.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into History: The Fontana del Vecchio
The fountain's structure is a fascinating blend of old and new. The upper section, including the entablature and semicircular pediment, is the original 15th-century work. This part is richly decorated, featuring the Aragonese coat of arms, floral garlands, and angels. In contrast, the basin below was replaced in 1901, giving the fountain a dual character that reflects its long history. The inscription on the slab above details its patron and the year of its construction, offering a direct link to the past.
Beyond its aesthetic and historical value, the Fontana del Vecchio serves a practical purpose. It is the terminal point of an ancient aqueduct, and the water that flows from it is renowned for being exceptionally cold and drinkable, even in the peak of summer. This makes it a beloved spot for locals and a welcome amenity for tourists exploring the city, providing a refreshing pause amidst their sightseeing.
Architectural Details and Symbolism
Further embellishments include the Aragonese coat of arms at the center of the pediment, surrounded by a garland of flowers and fruit held by two angels, symbolizing prosperity and divine favor. The frieze below is adorned with the coats of arms of Sulmona at each end, marked with the initials S.M.P.E., signifying the city's pride and identity. Two lateral gargoyles, shaped like flowers, complete the decorative elements, adding a touch of whimsy and functionality by directing water flow.
The basin, though a later addition from 1901, is designed in a sarcophagus style, complementing the historical gravitas of the upper structure. The overall composition is a harmonious blend of artistic expression and engineering, reflecting the architectural prowess of the period and the enduring legacy of Sulmona's past.
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