Fontanile Rinascimentale

The Fontanile Rinascimentale stands beside Porta dei Marsi at the edge of Tagliacozzo's historic centre. Built in the 15th century, the limestone fountain once served travellers and animals at the livestock market in Largo del Popolo.

Why it matters

The fountain combined a practical water source with a carefully shaped architectural front. Its original role as a watering trough connected it to the movement of livestock and people through the town's southern entrance.

What to notice

The limestone facade is divided into five segments by six pilaster strips and a cornice. Stars and mascarons decorate the wall, with spouts above a rectangular basin. The rear face uses irregular courses of triangular stone, a contrast with the dressed front.

Context and history

The fountain is also known as the Fontana di Porta dei Marsi and the Fontana del Mascherone. It was built beside the gate in the 15th century to serve travellers and animals entering the borgo. A historic photograph from 1900 records an earlier arrangement with more outlets. The fountain remains a landmark of Largo del Popolo.