Fountain of Pius IX

The Fountain of Piazza Mastai, located in the lively Trastevere district of Rome, is a fascinating example of nineteenth-century architecture and design. Commissioned by Pope Pius IX and designed by architect Andrea Busiri Vici, the fountain was completed in 1865 and represents one of the last major urban interventions of the papal dominion over the eternal city. The fountain is located in the center of Piazza Mastai, dominated by the imposing building of the Tobacco Factory, which was erected in the same period by the will of Pope Pius IX. This monumental building represented one of the most modern industrial plants of the time and the fountain became its ideal complement, adding a touch of elegance and monumentality to the square. The design of the fountain is characterized by a large octagonal basin, placed on an octagonal ramp of three high steps. The sides of the basin are decorated with the coat of arms of the pontiff, alternated with ornamental cartouches bearing the name of the pope and the completion date of the work, the year 1865. In the center of the basin stands an octagonal balustrade supporting four dolphins with crossed tails, on which rests a circular and shallow basin. From this basin, water falls out of the mouths of four lions sculpted on the lower part. The top element of the fountain, composed of four putti supporting a small inverted cup worked in scales, is of modern inspiration and reminiscent of the decorations of the fountains in St. Peter’s Square. This detail, although smaller in size compared to the other elements, adds a touch of refined elegance to the overall structure. The last significant restoration of the fountain dates back to 1996, when the square was arranged and various elements of the fountain were restored, bringing it back to its original splendor. Previously, another intervention was carried out in 1959, when the fountain, severely degraded, was partially repaired and some missing parts were replaced. The history of the Fountain of Piazza Mastai is closely linked to that of the Mastai-Ferretti family, to which Pope Pius IX belonged. Giovanni Maria Mastai-Ferretti, who became pope in 1846, ruled during a period of great changes and political tensions that culminated in the end of the temporal power of the popes in 1870. The fountain, built shortly before these events, symbolizes the pope’s desire to modernize Rome and leave a lasting imprint on the city. An interesting anecdote concerns the period in which the fountain was completed. It is said that Pope Pius IX, despite growing political pressures and the difficulties of his pontificate, was determined to complete public works of great importance to improve the city and the lives of its inhabitants. The fountain, with its elegance and monumentality, represents this vision and the pope’s desire to promote progress and urban beauty.