Eagle Fountain Garden

The Eagle Fountain (Fontana dell'Aquila) is one of the most spectacular water features in the Vatican Gardens and forms the center of a magnificently designed garden area. Erected between 1611 and 1612 by commission of Pope Paul V Borghese, the monument was designed by the architect Giovanni Vasanzio. The fountain celebrates the restoration of the ancient Acqua Paola aqueduct, which channeled water from Lake Bracciano to the Vatican. The architectural design is modeled after an ancient triumphal arch and is crafted from travertine, with the namesake eagle, the heraldic animal of the Borghese family, crowning the top. Below the main arch, water cascades over artificial rocks into a large basin, flanked by statues and water-spouting dragons. The surrounding garden is designed to emphasize the drama of the flowing water, with shaded paths and classic Italian planting. This structure is not only a masterpiece of the Baroque but also a symbol of papal power over natural resources. The fountain continues to serve as an important landmark for visitors to the gardens and is an example of the masterly combination of engineering and aesthetics in the early modern period.

History & landmarks

Vatican City Railway Station

The only railway station in the world's smallest state.

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Vatican City Heliport

The heliport is located at the westernmost tip of the state.

Bunker Access

A secured access point to underground structures within the Vatican walls.

Fountain of the Galley

A decorative fountain in the Vatican Gardens evocative of maritime themes.

Ethiopian College Terrace

A distinct topographic step in the heart of the Vatican Gardens.

Porta Pertusa

This historical gate in the Leonine Wall dates from the 16th century and is located near the Vatican heliport.

Eagle Fountain Terrace

An observation terrace at mid-height on Vatican Hill.

Mosaic Studio Slope

A steep topographic section behind St.

Nature

Citrus Grove

In this protected area, various citrus fruits such as lemons, oranges, and grapefruits grow.

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Israel Olive Tree

This centuries-old olive tree was a gift from the State of Israel to the Vatican.

Japanese Maple Area

Various species of Japanese maple are planted in a special part of the gardens.

Palm Tree Collection

The gardens house an impressive variety of palm species from tropical regions.

Eagle Fountain Pond

An artificial water basin that is part of the monumental 17th-century Eagle Fountain.

More places

Tower of San Giovanni

A massive tower in the Vatican Gardens, part of the medieval fortifications.

Ethiopian College

The only educational institution located entirely within the territory of Vatican City.

Governatorato Palace

The administrative center of Vatican City, housing the government of the state.

Palace of Leo XIII

This elegant building in the Vatican Gardens was designed as a summer residence for Pope Leo XIII.

San Carlo Palace

A significant residential building within the Vatican, serving as a residence for clerics and officials of the Roman Curia.

Canons' Palace

This monumental residential complex houses the canons of St.

Church of Santa Maria della Pietà

The national church for the German-speaking population in the Vatican, located directly adjacent to the Campo Santo Teutonico.

Palace of the Sacristy

This massive building houses the sacristy of St.