Fountain of the Caryatids

Elegant work of art by architect and sculptor Attilio Selva

The Fontana delle Cariatidi, located in Piazza dei Quiriti in Rome, is an elegant work of art and one of the symbols of early twentieth-century architecture and sculpture.
The fountain was designed by the architect and sculptor Attilio Selva, born in Trieste in 1888 and died in Rome in 1970. Selva was one of the representatives of the Art Nouveau movement, known in Italy as "Stile Liberty". The fountain was completed in 1928.

Description and Style

The fountain is characterized by an eclectic and innovative style for the time, mixing classical and modernist elements.

The Caryatids: The fountain is famous for its four female figures, the caryatids, who support a large circular basin. The caryatids are sculpted with detailed care and represent an ideal of classical beauty, but are interpreted in a modern way, with elegant and fluid poses.

The water: Water flows from the amphorae that the caryatids hold in their hands, creating a harmonious and relaxing visual effect. The upper basin, supported by the female figures, allows the water to gently fall into the basin below.

The material: The fountain is made of travertine, a typical material of Roman architecture, which gives the structure a feeling of solidity and durability.

History, context and meaning

The Fontana delle Cariatidi was commissioned as part of the urban renewal of Rome during the Fascist period. Despite its beauty, the fountain was the subject of controversy due to the nudity of the female figures, considered daring and scandalous for the time. However, over time, the work has been revalued and has become a popular decorative element of the city.

The fountain represents a meeting point between tradition and modernity, reflecting the artistic trends of the period and the desire for innovation. It is a remarkable example of how public art can enrich the urban fabric, offering the inhabitants and visitors of Rome a place of beauty and contemplation.

Today, the Fontana delle Cariatidi is one of Rome's many hidden treasures, appreciated not only for its artistic beauty but also for its historical and cultural value.