Fontana Maggiore

Definition

The Fontana Maggiore is a prominent medieval fountain located in Perugia, Italy, completed in 1278. It symbolizes the wealth and civic pride of the city during the medieval period and showcases the influence of Roman engineering and artistry on urban infrastructure, reflecting the legacy of ancient Greek and Roman cities in the medieval world.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Fontana Maggiore was designed by the sculptor Nicola Pisano and his workshop, showcasing intricate carvings and reliefs that represent various allegorical figures and local legends.
2. It was constructed using local travertine and pink sandstone, illustrating the integration of natural resources into public works during the medieval period.
3. The fountain features two basins supported by a series of columns, demonstrating advanced hydraulic engineering techniques inherited from Roman aqueducts.
4. The Fontana Maggiore served as a focal point for civic life in Perugia, often used for public gatherings, celebrations, and ceremonies, enhancing its role in community identity.
5. Over time, it has been recognized as an iconic symbol of Perugia, representing the continuity of Roman traditions in the design and function of urban public spaces.

Review Questions

• How does the Fontana Maggiore reflect the architectural influences of ancient Roman cities in its design?
  • The Fontana Maggiore reflects ancient Roman architectural influences through its use of advanced hydraulic engineering techniques and stylistic elements. The fountain's two basins and columns demonstrate a clear lineage from Roman public works, where functionality meets artistry. The intricate carvings and reliefs also show a continuation of narrative sculpture seen in Roman monuments, emphasizing the blend of utility and beauty characteristic of both Roman and medieval civic architecture.
• In what ways did the Fontana Maggiore contribute to the social and civic life in Perugia during the medieval period?
  • The Fontana Maggiore significantly contributed to social and civic life in Perugia by serving as a central gathering place for public events, celebrations, and daily interactions. Its grandeur not only provided practical benefits by supplying water but also reinforced a sense of community identity among residents. By becoming a focal point for communal activities, it enhanced civic pride and illustrated how public architecture can shape social dynamics within a city.
• Evaluate the impact of the Fontana Maggiore on our understanding of medieval urban planning and its connection to earlier Greek and Roman practices.
  • Evaluating the impact of the Fontana Maggiore reveals how medieval urban planning was deeply rooted in earlier Greek and Roman practices. The careful consideration of location, accessibility, and aesthetics in its design reflects a sophisticated understanding of public space that mirrors ancient traditions. This connection underscores how medieval cities adapted classical principles to meet contemporary needs while preserving cultural legacies. The fountain's enduring presence illustrates an evolution in urban planning that continues to inform modern city design.

Related terms

Civic Architecture: The design and construction of public buildings and structures that serve the community, often reflecting the values and identity of a city.

Gothic Style: An architectural style that emerged in the High and Late Middle Ages, characterized by pointed arches, ribbed vaults, and flying buttresses.

Water Supply Systems: Technological systems developed to transport and supply water to urban centers, crucial for public health and sanitation in medieval cities.