Fontana Contarini (Contarini Fountain), Bergamo

The Contarini Fountain is a magnificent architectural masterpiece that has a rich history and continues to captivate visitors with its beauty. Constructed in Zandobbio marble, the fountain features a main basin with an octagonal base, from which a jet of water gracefully flows. This central water jet serves as the focal point of the fountain, creating a soothing and mesmerizing effect.

The fountain is adorned with an array of ornamental statues that are symmetrically arranged. At the forefront, there are two small opposing sphinxes, each facing different directions. One sphinx looks towards the Reason Square, while the other faces the civic library. Positioned at the base of these sphinxes are small tanks that collect the flowing water, allowing visitors to drink from their mouths.

Flanking each of the small basins are two columns adorned with sculpted zoomorphic elements like snakes and lions. These intricate details add to the visual appeal of the fountain and showcase the artistry and craftsmanship of the sculptors involved in its creation.

On the sides left unguarded, equidistantly placed, stand two statues representing lions, symbolizing the Serenissima, the Republic of Venice, which once commanded the city of Bergamo. These statues pay homage to the historical significance of the region and its ties to the powerful Venetian Republic.

The fountain derives its name from Alvise Contarini, the mayor of the Republic of Venice. In 1780, upon leaving his post in Bergamo, Contarini gifted the fountain to the citizens. However, the fountain underwent significant modifications in 1858, altering some of its original features. This transformation aimed to update and improve the fountain's functionality.

During the Risorgimento in 1885, a period marked by the Italian unification movement, the Contarini Fountain was dismantled to make way for the monument dedicated to Giuseppe Garibaldi, a prominent figure in the struggle for Italian independence. However, a few decades later, at the beginning of the 20th century, the fountain was reassembled in its original location, while the monument to Garibaldi found its place in the Lower Town.