Fontana del Cervo
A stunning Baroque fountain with a colossal Hercules statue and mesmerizing water games, set within the grand gardens of Venaria Reale.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Fontana del Cervo
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A stunning Baroque fountain with a colossal Hercules statue and mesmerizing water games, set within the grand gardens of Venaria Reale.
"A beautiful and scenographic masterpiece, the Fontana del Cervo is a must-see in the gardens of Venaria Reale."
🎟️ Book Tickets Online
Save time and guarantee entry by purchasing your Reggia di Venaria Reale tickets in advance online.
👟 Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking in the gardens, so wear comfortable shoes.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Water Spectacle
Fontana del Cervo
Witness the mesmerizing water games and sound effects, a true Baroque marvel.
Hercules Statue
Center of the fountain
Marvel at the colossal marble statue of Hercules, a powerful symbol of strength and mythology.
Grottos and Caves
Beneath the fountain
Explore the cool, hidden grottos, once used to escape the summer heat and admire mosaic details.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to Fontana del Cervo
Tickets and Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Book Tickets Online
Save time and guarantee entry by purchasing your Reggia di Venaria Reale tickets in advance online.
👟 Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking in the gardens, so wear comfortable shoes.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Especially in summer, bring water as the gardens are extensive and can get warm. The grottos offer some cool respite.
🎶 Music & Water Shows
Catch the synchronized water and music shows for a truly enchanting experience.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Book Tickets Online
Save time and guarantee entry by purchasing your Reggia di Venaria Reale tickets in advance online.
👟 Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking in the gardens, so wear comfortable shoes.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Especially in summer, bring water as the gardens are extensive and can get warm. The grottos offer some cool respite.
🎶 Music & Water Shows
Catch the synchronized water and music shows for a truly enchanting experience.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Fontana del Cervo as a beautiful and scenographic masterpiece, highlighting its historical significance and impressive Baroque design. The water games and the colossal Hercules statue are consistent crowd-pleasers. Some visitors noted it was under refurbishment in June 2023, but the restored sections and grottos are highly appreciated.
"Beautiful fountain with brief but interesting signs talking about it's history."
George Hanfrey
"Under refurbishment in June 2023"
metalpsyche82
"The complex of the fountain of the colossal Hercules, was built between 1669 and 1672 for the gardens, it was a place where parties were held. Designed by Amedeo di Castellamonte. The statue is three meters and twenty-four centimeters high and is made of a single block of marble. The fountain and the statue remain a very beautiful and scenographic masterpiece."
Mirco.64
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Fontana del Cervo is located within the gardens of the Reggia di Venaria Reale. You can reach the Reggia by car, bus, or train from Turin. Once inside the Reggia complex, follow signs for the gardens to find the fountain.
Yes, there is parking available near the Reggia di Venaria Reale. It's advisable to check the official website for current parking fees and locations.
Absolutely! Several bus lines connect Turin to Venaria Reale, making it an accessible option. Check local transport schedules for the most up-to-date information.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, access to Fontana del Cervo is typically included with your ticket to the Reggia di Venaria Reale and its gardens. It's part of the overall visitor experience.
It's highly recommended to purchase tickets online in advance through the official Reggia di Venaria Reale website to avoid long queues.
Opening hours vary seasonally. It's best to check the official Reggia di Venaria Reale website for the most current information on garden and fountain access.
The Reggia offers various ticket options, including combined tickets like 'Tutto in una Reggia' which covers the palace, exhibitions, and gardens. Look for these on their official website.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Plan for at least 2-3 hours to explore the gardens and fully appreciate the Fontana del Cervo. You might want more time if you plan to visit the entire Reggia complex.
While the main paths in the gardens are generally accessible, some areas, like the grottos, may have stairs. The Reggia's website provides detailed accessibility information.
Yes, audio guides are available for rent at the entrance to the gardens, which can enhance your understanding of the Fontana del Cervo and its history.
Photography is generally allowed for personal use. However, professional photography or videography may require special permits.
These are special summer evening events where the gardens are illuminated with thousands of candles, and you can witness the 'Teatro dell'Acqua' at the Fontana del Cervo.
📸 📸 Photography
Early morning or late afternoon offers the best light for photography, minimizing harsh shadows and capturing the fountain's beauty. Weekdays are also less crowded for unobstructed shots.
Experiment with different angles from the main pathways. The curved staircases offer unique perspectives, and the grottos provide a different, more intimate photographic experience.
Yes, the water shows are a highlight! Use a slightly faster shutter speed to freeze the water's movement or a slower one for a more ethereal effect.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during the 'Sere d’Estate' events for a truly magical evening. The candlelit gardens and water shows create an unforgettable atmosphere. Pack snacks and drinks, and ensure everyone wears comfortable shoes for exploring the extensive gardens.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Don't miss the opportunity to capture the water and music shows, which are particularly stunning during the 'Sere d’Estate' events. Experiment with different shutter speeds to create unique water effects. The grottos also offer a more intimate and atmospheric setting for close-up shots.
🏛️ History Buffs
Exploring the grottos allows you to see preserved fragments and understand the original grandeur of the fountain. The connection to classical mythology, used to express ideals and virtues, adds another layer of historical significance to your visit.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Restoration of Fontana del Cervo
Over time, the original structure deteriorated, and by the mid-eighteenth century, demolition began, with its marbles being reused in other noble residences. The ambitious restoration project, completed in June 2022, aimed to revive this seventeenth-century masterpiece. It involved reconstructing parts of the fountain to showcase its original dimensions and appearance, while also preserving historical fragments. The grottos beneath the staircase were also renovated, offering a cool retreat and a glimpse into the fountain's past.
Today, the Fontana del Cervo stands as a testament to Baroque artistry and engineering. Visitors can admire the impressive Hercules statue, the intricate water displays, and the preserved grottos, which offer a unique perspective on the fountain's history and its role in the grand design of the Venaria Reale gardens. The restoration ensures that this scenographic masterpiece continues to enchant visitors for generations to come.
Experiencing the Gardens of Venaria Reale
The 'Teatro dell'Acqua' at the Fontana del Cervo is a highlight, especially during special events like the 'Sere d’Estate' (Summer Evenings). During these events, the gardens are transformed with thousands of candles, creating a magical ambiance. The synchronized water and music shows at the fountain become even more enchanting under the soft glow of candlelight, offering a truly immersive experience.
Beyond the Fontana del Cervo, the gardens provide ample space for relaxation and exploration. Whether you're enjoying a leisurely walk, picnicking, or simply soaking in the atmosphere, the gardens offer a serene escape and a perfect complement to the grandeur of the Reggia. Remember to wear comfortable shoes, as there's a lot to see!

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