The Fontana delle Conche (“Fountain of the Basins”) decorated the corner of Via di Valle Giulia and Via Flaminia in the Pinciano district of Rome. The fountain has undergone several transformations over the centuries.
A brief history of the Fontana delle Conche in Rome
The Fontana delle Conche is also known as the Fontana delle Tre Conche. It was originally built as a watering hole opposite the monumental fountain of Julius III. The two fountains formed the setting for the papal palace at the end of the street.
In 1672, Cardinal Federico Borromeo had the fountain restored. The background, the inscription, his coat of arms and the mask were added.
In 1877, the Fontana del Babuino was moved to the courtyard of the Palazzo Boncompagni. The tub of this fountain then replaced the one of the Fontana delle Conche.
This lasted until 1957, when both the baboon and its tub were returned to their original location in Via del Babuino near the Spanish Steps. A granite copy was made for the Fountain of the Basins.
Already in 1934, Vittorio Grassi had made a new design for the fountain, executed by Armando Foschini. The central basin with the two half basins above it were added.
The back wall of the fountain is made of travertine marble.
Useful Information
The address of the fountain is Via di Villa Giulia, 22 – 00196 Rome. Quartiere: Pinciano. Bus: 231. Streetcar: 3, 19. The fountain is officially known as the Fontana Abbeveratoio detta delle Conche.
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