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The Fountain of the Mask (Fontana del Mascherone di Santa Sabina) in Piazza Pietro D’Illiria, located at the entrance to the Giardino degli Aranci (Orange Garden) on the Aventine Hill, is a notable landmark in Rome.
Designed by the renowned architect Giacomo della Porta in 1593, this striking fountain features a distinctive marble mask. Originally part of a fountain in the Roman Forum, the mask has a storied history, having been relocated several times before settling in its current location.
The basin beneath the mask originates from an ancient Roman thermal bath, likely dating back to the 1st or 2nd century AD, reflecting the layered historical influences in its design. The fountain stands approximately 1.5 metres tall and 2 metres wide.
Notably, the mask bears a strong resemblance to the famous Mouth of Truth, which lies nearby.
Fountain in the film “The Great Beauty”
In one of the early scenes (15th minute) of the film The Great Beauty (2013), the main character, Jep Gambardella, drinks from a nasone—a typical Roman public drinking fountain—positioned next to this historic feature.
He then walks past the Fountain, helping set the tone for the film’s poetic journey through Rome’s beauty and grandeur.
This scene captures the Fountain’s tranquil and timeless charm, making it a must-see for both locals and visitors.
History of Creation
The Fontana del Mascherone is a fine example of Roman Baroque craftsmanship. The fountain features a large marble mask with furrowed brows and a prominent moustache. It was sculpted by stonemason Bartolomeo Bassi, following designs by Giacomo della Porta.
The mask, created in 1593, was originally part of a fountain located in the Campo Vaccino, positioned above the granite basin now found beneath it. This basin once served as a watering trough for livestock grazing in the area.
In the early 19th century, Pope Pius VII Chiaramonti (1800–1823) transferred the granite basin to Montecavallo to be used as a fountain beneath the statues of the Dioscuri. The mask, meanwhile, was relocated to Porto Leonino and installed in the Fountain of Acqua Lancisiana. It remained there until 1897, when that structure was dismantled during the construction of the Lungotevere embankments.
In 1936, architect Antonio Muñoz reunited the mask and basin, assembling them into a single fountain. He installed the work within a niche along the walls of the Giardino degli Aranci, where it continues to enchant visitors with its historical charm and artistic detail.
Both fountains are essential stops for anyone exploring the rich historical and architectural heritage of Rome’s Aventine Hill—offering insights into the city’s layered past and a peaceful respite from the bustle of modern life.
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