When it was inaugurated in 1901, the sensuality of the four smooth bronze nymphs, who seem to dance among the more than 300 waterspouts, caused quite a stir, but its boldness and innovative plastic and figurative solutions were also a departure from the past, a sign of a changed sensibility. This is one of the reasons why the Fountain of the Naiads, the first major public work completed and inaugurated in the center of Piazza della Repubblica after Rome became the capital of the Kingdom of Italy, has always been considered a symbol of modernity, as well as one of the main expressions of Art Nouveau in the city.
A popular attraction in Rome, drawing tourists and locals alike, the fountain regained its original beauty thanks to careful restoration and enhancement work recently completed by the Capitoline Superintendency as part of the NRRP - Caput Mundi program. Thanks to the restoration work, the sculptures of the four Naiads, the refined details of the animals and aquatic monsters, and the imposing figure of the mythical fisherman Glaucus clutching the dolphin are once again visible. The basins and the high pink granite base, designed by architect Alessandro Guerrieri, have also regained their original colors.
The work included disinfection and pest control using biocidal treatments, the inspection and replacement of grouting, the application of a protective coating to all surfaces, and the removal and replacement of the waterproofing of the pools. Finally, work on the plumbing and artistic lighting systems was financed by the Department of Infrastructure and Public Works and carried out by ACEA ATO 2 and ARETI. The latter took care of the maintenance on the monument’s artistic lighting system, consisting of over 100 LEDs.
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