Fountain of Neptune
The basics
This masterpiece of sculptor Bartolomeo Ammannati was commissioned to celebrate the wedding of Francesco I de’ Medici and the Grand Duchess Johanna of Austria. The elaborate bronze and marble statue portrays a towering image of Neptune—Roman god of the sea—with the face of Cosimo I de 'Medici; satyrs and horses frolic around the high central pedestal and basin. Despite sustaining considerable damage over the years, including losing a hand to vandals in 2005, the statue has been painstakingly restored and remains a popular meeting place for both locals and tourists.
A stroll through Piazza della Signoria with a stop at the Fountain of Neptune is a must during Florence tours on foot, Segway, or bike. Most private and small-group tours also include skip-the-line tickets to other top attractions in and near Piazza della Signoria—including the Uffizi, Palazzo Vecchio, and the Accademia.
Things to know before you go
- The fountain is in the center of the flat and paved Piazza della Signoria, which is wheelchair- and stroller-accessible.
- Piazza della Signoria is lined with restaurants and bars, perfect for a snack or drink.
- Wear a hat and sunscreen if visiting in summer, as the fountain and surrounding square have little shade.
- Be sure to bring your camera to capture the most picturesque fountain in Florence.
How to get there
The Fountain of Neptune is in Piazza della Signoria—in the heart of Florence’s historical center; a short walk from the Duomo, Ponte Vecchio, and Santa Maria Novella train station.
Trip ideas
When to get there
Piazza della Signoria is particularly hot and crowded with tourists in summer, so visit in spring or fall to enjoy the fountain with cooler temperatures and fewer tourists.
Visiting Piazza della Signoria
Piazza della Signoria is the most important square in Florence, and was the political heart of the city for centuries. Best known as the site of Palazzo Vecchio—the 14th-century crenelated city hall and museum that was once the seat of the Florentine Republic—the square is also home to Loggia dei Lanzi and a replica of Michelangelo’s David.
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- Palazzo Vecchio
- Piazza della Signoria
- Gucci Garden (Gucci Museo)
- Loggia dei Lanzi
- Orsanmichele Church and Museum (Chiesa e Museo di Orsanmichele)
- Bargello Museum (Museo Nazionale del Bargello)
- Ponte Vecchio
- Auditorium Santo Stefano al Ponte Vecchio
- Galileo Museum (Museo Galileo)
- Piazza della Repubblica
- Uffizi Galleries (Gallerie degli Uffizi)
- Palazzo Davanzati
- Vasari Corridor (Corridoio Vasariano)
- Palazzo Strozzi
- Arno River