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Fountain of the Sacrament

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Fountain of the Sacrament (Vatican)

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The Fountain of the Sacrament is a magnificent Baroque water feature located within the Vatican Gardens, commissioned in the early 17th century by Pope Paul V Borghese. The design is attributed to the Dutch architect Jan van Santen (known in Italy as Giovanni Vasanzio), who was celebrated for his refined and elegant style. The fountain's architectural composition resembles an ancient facade or a triumphal arch, complete with classical columns, niches, and the prominent coat of arms of the Borghese family. Water flows down in several cascading levels, creating a serene acoustic environment in the secluded gardens. Historically, the fountain was part of Paul V's ambitious project to improve the Vatican's water supply through the restoration of the Acqua Paola aqueduct. Its name is derived from its proximity to the former Chapel of the Sacrament. Its harmonious integration into the lush garden surroundings makes it one of the finest examples of Roman Renaissance and Baroque garden architecture.

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Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Sep.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C781014182326262117128
Rain mm7377695657342626708211492

📋 Practical info

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Visiting
The Baroque Fountain of the Sacrament is located in the Vatican Gardens and can only be seen on a guided tour. It is an outdoor installation, so weather-appropriate clothing is recommended.
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Typical hours
Guided garden tours typically take place in the morning, exact times vary by season. Please check the official Vatican website for current tour schedules.
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Photography
Photography of the fountain is allowed during the tour for personal use. Flash and tripods are generally not permitted to preserve the ambiance.
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Time needed
A stop at this fountain during the tour lasts about 10 minutes. The entire garden tour takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, including multiple stops.
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Combine with
Combine this fountain with the nearby Fountain of the Eagle and Fountain of the Galley on the same tour. The Vatican Gardens host a variety of baroque water features.
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Getting there
Access is exclusively through the Vatican Museums with a booked garden tour. The meeting point is usually in the Pinecone Courtyard, from where the tour leads into the gardens.
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Insider tip
Ask your guide about the symbolism of the Fountain of the Sacrament, which is often artistically crafted. An early tour helps catch the best lighting for photos.

Geography

Coordinates
41.90500, 12.45200

Facts

  • The fountain was constructed between 1612 and 1614.
  • Architect Giovanni Vasanzio was originally from Utrecht.
  • The Borghese coat of arms features an eagle and a dragon.
  • It is supplied by water from the Acqua Paola aqueduct.
  • The fountain's design is modeled after a classical temple.
  • It is located near the Casina Pio IV in the Vatican Gardens.

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Sights in the town Fountain of the Sacrament (10)

Pius IV House

Seat of the Pontifical Academy of Sciences, a Renaissance building in the Vatican.

Vatican Art Gallery🏛 museum

Branch of the Vatican Museums, displaying paintings and tapestries from the 12th, 19th centuries.

🕒 Mo-Sa 08:00-17:00+♿💶

Padiglione delle carrozze🏛 museum

Pavilion with historic carriages and automobiles of the popes, in the Vatican Museums.

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Vatican Museums🏛 museum

Museums of the Vatican City, housing an extensive collection of art and antiquities.

Tower of the Winds🗼 tower

Tower in Vatican City, housing a 16th-century astronomical clock.

Scala Elicoidale Giuseppe Momo

Double-helix staircase in bronze and marble, designed by Giuseppe Momo in 1932.

Belvedere Courtyard

Former Vatican courtyard, now part of the museums, featuring niches and statues.

Vatican Hill

Hill in Rome, location of St. Peter's Basilica and the Vatican state.

Sistine Chapel

Chapel in the Apostolic Palace, famous for Michelangelo's ceiling frescoes.

St Mary's Church

Church building in Vatican City.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Where is the Fountain of the Sacrament located?
It is located in the Vatican Gardens, near the wall.
Who designed the fountain?
The architect Carlo Maderno in the early 17th century.
Why is it called the Fountain of the Sacrament?
Because of its resemblance to a monumental altar.
Is the fountain accessible to the public?
Only as part of a guided tour through the Vatican Gardens.
What is special about its water flow?
The water falls in cascades reminiscent of candles on an altar.
Fountain of the Sacrament: where is it located?
Fountain of the Sacrament is located in Vatican.
Fountain of the Sacrament: what is there to see?
Highlights include Pius IV House, Vatican Art Gallery, Padiglione delle carrozze.
Fountain of the Sacrament: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Sep.
Fountain of the Sacrament: why is it worth visiting?
The Fountain of the Sacrament is a magnificent Baroque water feature located within the Vatican Gardens, commissioned in the early 17th century by Pope Paul V Borghese.
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History & landmarks

Fountain of the Galley — Fountain of the Sacrament (Vatican)
Fountain of the Galley
A decorative fountain in the Vatican Gardens evocative of maritime themes.
Bunker Access — Fountain of the Sacrament (Vatican)
Bunker Access
A secured access point to underground structures within the Vatican walls.
🗺️
Typography Street
The central street of the Vatican's publishing district, home to the printing presses and editorial offices of official media.

More places

Gallery of Maps — Fountain of the Sacrament (Vatican)
Gallery of Maps
A 120-meter long corridor painted with 16th-century topographical maps of Italy.
Gregorian Etruscan Museum — Fountain of the Sacrament (Vatican)
Gregorian Etruscan Museum
The museum is dedicated to Etruscan art and culture.
Palace of Leo XIII — Fountain of the Sacrament (Vatican)
Palace of Leo XIII
This elegant building in the Vatican Gardens was designed as a summer residence for Pope Leo XIII.
Chiaramonti Museum — Fountain of the Sacrament (Vatican)
Chiaramonti Museum
Founded by Pope Pius VII, this museum displays hundreds of Roman busts and statues in an impressive gallery designed by Canova.
Vatican Pinacoteca — Fountain of the Sacrament (Vatican)
Vatican Pinacoteca
A section of the Vatican Museums specialized in paintings.
Pio-Clementine Museum — Fountain of the Sacrament (Vatican)
Pio-Clementine Museum
The largest of the Vatican Museums, housing significant Greek and Roman sculptures, including the famous Laocoön group.
Palace of Innocent VIII — Fountain of the Sacrament (Vatican)
Palace of Innocent VIII
This palace forms the core of the Belvedere complex in the Vatican.
Ethiopian College — Fountain of the Sacrament (Vatican)
Ethiopian College
The only educational institution located entirely within the territory of Vatican City.