Fountain of Neptune

Why go

Stand in Piazza del Nettuno to see how a sixteenth-century papal commission became one of Bologna’s clearest civic images. Neptune’s commanding gesture contrasts with the folded, swelling forms that carry the water below. The trident also explains the Bologna connection in Maserati’s emblem.

What to look for

• Giambologna’s bronze Neptune extends one arm over the square.
• The basins curve and bulge rather than following a simple geometric plan.
• Neptune’s trident inspired the Maserati emblem.

Useful to know

• See the fountain while crossing between Piazza Maggiore and the Salaborsa library.
• Walk around the basin to compare the bronze figure with its sculpted water forms.