The Fountains of Reggia di Caserta

This fountain features the sculpture of a sea monster having a dolphin’s head and flanked by two smaller dolphins. The water flows out of the mouth of the sea monster and is collected in a huge basin having a length of 470 meters, a width of 27 meters, and a depth of 8 meters. The stripped ashlar present in the background of this amazingly designed fountain creates a perfect setting of geometrically patterned rocks placed in a beautiful natural setting.

Must Checkout: Plan Your Visit to Reggia di Caserta

Placed at the second position in Fontana Reggia di Caserta, the fountain of Aeolus is known for its massive size. It is a tribute to Aeolus, the God of Wind, who is urged by goddess Juno to unleash the fury of winds to punish Aeneas and the Trojans. The fountain features a total of 28 statues and has a width of 80 meters. What makes the fountain unique is that it is amongst the few unfinished works featured in the gardens.

Also Explore: Caserta Palace Gardens

The fountain features the sculpture of Ceres, the goddess of the fertility of the fields. Ceres’ statue is surrounded by sculptures of nymphs, a couple of tritons, cupids, and a pair of bugle-playing dolphins. Flanking the statue of Ceres on either side are the sculptures of male deities Anepo and Arethusa, the two Sicilian rivers. The goddess Ceres is seen holding the Trinacria Medallion, and she was originally adorned with ears of wheat, which were removed during the French occupation.

Must Checkout: Reggia di Caserta Royal Halls

This is one of the fountains of Reggia di Caserta depicting a scene from Roman mythology. The sculptures of the fountain show Venus requesting Adonis to not go hunting and warning him about fierce animals like lions and wild boars. The statue of Adonis is surrounded by sculptures of dogs looking excited about the prospective hunt. There is also a sculpture of a wild boar hiding in the rocks along with the sculptures of a crowd of nymphs and cupids, who seem to share Venus’ despair.

Visit More: Reggia di Caserta Grand Staircase

The fountain features a great waterfall and a large basin with the sculptures of Diana, the goddess of the hunt and woods, and Actaeon, the person who dared to see Diana naked. The statue of Diana is placed on one side along with the nymphs just ready to jump into the water. The statue of Actaeon is placed on the other side looking at Diana and being transformed into a deer. His sculpture is surrounded by his dogs, who are ready to tear him to pieces once his transformation is complete.

Visit: Reggia di Caserta Diana and Actaeon Fountain