Neptune's Fountain

Neptune’s Fountain is a beautiful landmark right in the heart of Piazza Maggiore. The statue was created in the 16th century by Giambologna and shows Neptune towering over the square as a symbol of power and abundance. The craftsmanship is incredible and the details are striking when you see it up close. The surrounding square is just as impressive, lined with historic buildings that make you feel like you have stepped back into Renaissance Italy. We loved visiting and found it to be a place where history, art, and the daily life of the city all come together. It is definitely one of the highlights of Bologna and worth taking the time to enjoy. If you want the best photos and a quieter atmosphere, visit early in the morning before the crowds arrive.

This fountain is truly a work of art! Perfect place to sit, take in and observe it's beauty. There is a certain calm that washes over one's body while near this fountain.

Great sculpture just in the center of Bologna old town. From here you can walk in all directions to have a good time

Great location. Wish I had more time here. Lots of shops and restaurants. During my evening there noticed alot of construction in the area. I assume it's all part of progress. I would definitely recommend this location for dining and shopping. During my visit there was a huge outdoor theater set up for public entertainment.

Did you know this trident inspired the iconic Maserati logo? In Bologna’s main square, you’ll find Neptune, the Roman god of the seas 🌊 Holding his trident ⚡, he and symbolizes power and dominion. A must-see landmark in Bologna !

The Fontana del Nettuno is one of those landmarks that stops you in your tracks—even if you've seen photos before. Set just off Piazza Maggiore, the statue of Neptune commands attention with its bold, confident stance, framed by playful cherubs and powerful sea creatures. Designed in the 16th century by Giambologna, it’s both a symbol of Bologna’s Renaissance ambitions and a striking piece of public art. There’s something magnetic about it—the contrast of flowing water and frozen strength, myth and civic pride. Whether passing by or pausing to take it in, it’s a piece that leaves an impression.

An intriguing and a bit lewd...the Neptune Fountain in Bologna is a photo op and rest stop if nothing else. Who could miss the opportunity to see the water squirting so playfully? After the giggles take a few minutes and marvel at the work involved in creating the fountain...then think of the whimsy “Pietra della Vergogna” or “Stone of Shame” is the secret of Bologna. Local pride, history and culture all come together in Neptune's Fountain...another work brought to the world by the Medicis.

Perhaps my favorite statue in Italy, and I saw tons of them. You really need to see it to believe it. Photos don't do it justice. I love this city.

Call us immature but we loved this fountain because we started calling Bologna the city of boobies after visiting it. I wish I spoke Italian so I could say it in a more romantic way, like the other nicknames for this city. And hey, we weren't the only ones because what supported our claim that we saw plenty of magnets and souvenirs decorated in this fashion. But more seriously, this fountain is lovely. The area has places to sit and enjoy people watching or having a snack. The rest of the piazza has great views and places to eat, drink and shop.

The fountain in the center of Bologna's main square was completed in 1565. The over-life-size bronze figure of the god Neptune was completed & fixed in place around 1566. I appreciated the water fountain in front; the free water was icy cold @ delicious. The fountain & sculpture are iconic symbols Bologna & references to them can be found in many symbols, commercials and logos. Neptune is stretching his left hand in a lordly gesture, appearing to be aiming to placate the waves. His posture symbolic of the power of the Pope as Neptune was the master of the seas, the Pope was the master of Bologna and of the world.

Nice piazza with a beautiful fountain. Great walking promenade to have an afternoon stroll or seat near by and take in the history and architecture around it.

It seems to me that every major city in Italy has a Neptune Fountain. This one is an early work by Giambologna. It is made of bronze and was completed about 1567. Neptune is extending his reach in a lordly gesture of trying to control and still the waters.

An beautiful 16th Century fountain with a large bronze statue of King Neptune in Piazza Nettuno (Neptune's Square). Around the base are a large number of cherubs and mermaids. The marvellous Palazzo Re Enzo serves as a grand backdrop. It's particularly impressive to see when floodlit at night.