Overview:

: Fontana della Pigna (Pinecone Fountain) is one of the oldest fountains in Vatican-City, located inside the Vatican courtyard. It is a monumental framed structure built in the 17th century and topped with a bronze pinecone, the symbol of Rome. The fountain is fed directly from the underground nymphaeum, which has been used since ancient times as a source of water supply. The fountain was built by Pope Leo XII in 1826 and has been an important part of the Vatican City decoration since. You can learn history, culture, and heritage through these magnificent monuments in Vatican-City
Prominent Features:

The Fountain of the Pinecone is one of the oldest and most iconic fountains in Vatican City. Located in the Cortile della Pigna (Pinecone Courtyard), the monumental fountain was built in 17th century in a Baroque style, with a tree-shaped fountain at its center. The fountain is composed of a large bronze pinecone, which is connected to a series of pipes and small basins. Water is constantly pumped into the fountain, which shoots out from numerous jets to create a pleasant and dynamic atmosphere. The fountain is a popular attraction for tourists and locals alike, as it was designed to both honor St. Peter and provide a beautiful view. The Pinecone Fountain is a reminder of the long history of the Vatican and its spiritual importance. This national monument of Vatican-City portrays the history and culture of the country.

History:

The Fontana della Pigna (Pinecone Fountain) is a historic fountain located in the Vatican City. It is located in the large vestibule in the Vatican Museums, in the Cortile della Pigna. The fountain was commissioned by Pope Innocent VIII in the 15th century, and is one of the oldest surviving fountains in Rome. The fountain is composed of an ornate marble basin surmounted by a bronze pinecone. Originally, it was likely part of a nymphaeum attributed to Bramante and was moved to its current location when the Museums were rearranged in 1622. The fountain was often used as a "watering-hole" for animals, leading a group of cats to gather around it during the mid-1800s. In 1860, the bronze pinecone was replaced due to its deterioration from the constant water dripping and the inscription on the fountain reads the same it did in the 15th century. In modern times, the Fontana della Pigna is a popular site of socialization among tourists and locals alike. The fountain is also a popular photography destination and has a collection of stone animals (including horses, goats, and birds) which visitors to the area can purchase as souvenirs. The Fontana della Pigna is a symbol of Vatican City, and its popularity continues to grow as more visitors come to explore the Vatican Museums. You must visit one of these historical places in Vatican-City on your Vatican-City tour

Interesting facts:

1. The Fontana della Pigna is literally translated to mean Pinecone Fountain, as it depicts the largest pinecone sculpture in the world. 2. The Fountain is believed to originate from the 1st century AD and is located in the Vatican City’s large walled gardens known as the Cortile della Pigna. 3.The fountain is composed of two large granite stones with the three-meter tall spiral shaped pinecone sculpture perched on top. 4. It is believed the pinecone was designed originally as a symbol of good luck as well as being associated with fertility and strength. 5. The Fountain was installed in the Cortile della Pigna in 1703 and has since become a major of attraction of the gardens. 6. The Fountain was the inspiration for the Italian lottery game known as the “loteria della Pigna” which began during the late 19th century. 7. The Pinecone Fountain is still the main modern-day symbol of the Vatican as well as the symbol of the Italian Lottery. Visit one of the famous monuments of Vatican-City with your friends and family.