NEPTUNE’S FOUNTAIN

HISTORY

The fountain of Neptune is a monumental fountain in Messina , it ‘s the second work in the city by Giovanni Angelo Montorsoli after the style of Michelangelo. The original position of Neptune ‘s fountain was in front of the facades with the shoulders addressed to the sea, to symbolize the God Neptune that blesses the city of Messina with the treasures of the sea. Today, however, the fountain of Neptune, has been moved further north, and rotated seaward, in fact, totally changing the symbology. In its original position, Neptune’s fountain was perfectly aligned with the other two works made by Montorsoli, Orion’ s fountain, and the Lantern of San Ranieri. The stylization of Neptune’s trident has become the logo of Maserati.

THE STATUE

The God Neptune, as just emerged from the water, calm and invincible, brandishes his formidable trident and keeps the monstrous Scilla and Cariddi chained at his feet. It’s an allegory of moral physical strength to tame adversities. The original statues of Scilla and Cariddi are kept at the local museum.

Since 1934 it stands in the Unità d’Italia Square in front of Government Hall. Originally facing the Spanish walls, and after the destruction caused by the earthquake of 1783 it was placed in front of the "Palace" of Minutoli. It stands on three steps on which it rests a large octagonal basin richly decorated with marine motifs and ten rectangular plinths, each of which are carved in low relief, two dolphins intertwined and engraved with the names of the senators of the time. On the sides, there are oval tanks where lion masks pour water. At the center of the basin, on a square pedestal there is the statuary group with four sea horses on either side and the chained figures of Scilla and Cariddi, at the foot of Neptune. Scilla is represented as a monstrous female figure characterized by eight heads of dogs barking. On the other side, also chained, there is the terrible Cariddi siren, screaming. The right hand is raised with an imperious gesture.

on this board you can see the original position of the statue - up right you can see Cariddi

And finally, here we are. We are your new mates and attend the V year of the Liceum. It was great fun taking these photos for you personally. We wish all the best and hope you like our stories about Messina and some of its landmarks.

This photo by Oriana Agati

Other photos above by mrs Miceli

Article by:

Roberto Laganà Vinci

Chiara La Rosa

Salvatore Lo Miglio

Alessandra Mancuso

Cristian Marchese