Fountain of Neptune

This marvelous fountain was designed in the 16th century by a famous sculptor and a student of Michelangelo, Bartolomeo Ammannati. It is dominated by a statue of Neptune standing on the octagonal base.

The god of freshwater and the sea was shaped to resemble the face of Cosimo I de' Medici, the second Duke of Florence. It serves as a reminder of the prestige and reputation of the powerful family.

Since it is located on one of the busiest squares in Florence, the statue of Neptune was damaged by vandals several times in the past. However, the original is safely stored in the National Museum of the Bargello, this is only a copy.