The passion for water has always been a characteristic of the Mediterranean people. Rome, the historic centre of
this region, has celebrated its fascination with water since its founding on the banks of the Tiber River. The construction of fountains has been a tribute to this passion and become one of Rome’s most cherished artistic treasures.
They have provided necessary water to its inhabitants and decorated the city for more than 2000 years. As an expression of art and architecture, Roman fountains are the symbol of a culture that finds its roots in ancient times.

 The development of water management systems in Rome began during the IV century B.C. when a massive web of aqueducts was built to serve all of the regions of the Empire. The first Roman aqueduct was constructed in 312 B.C by Appius Claudius Grasso. The construction of these impressive structures distinguished Rome as a leader in the
field of water distribution. With the construction of the aqueducts, the number of fountains in the city significantly increased . Aqueducts and fountains not only provided potable water to the squares & streets of Rome,
but also  artistically enriched the city.

Throughout the following centuries, additional fountains were installed around the city centre. In the latter part of the 19^th century, the rapid growth of Rome’s population
required that a significant number of fountains be installed in both established neighbourhoods and previously sparsely inhabited suburbs. It was during this period that the nasone style fountain became popular.
The nasone is a 90 kg (200 pound) cylindrical fountain made of cast iron. Its name is derived from the long, bent spout, that resembles a big nose (i.e. nasone), from which the water flows. This “big nose” is unique because of the little hole on its hump; plugging the main spout with a finger causes water to pour upwards out of this hole, facilitating the drinking process. Each nasone is marked with the traditional Roman seal: the imperial S.P.Q.R. and papal crown. Initially, 20 nasoni were placed in and around the city centre. Some of these originals can still be seen in the historic Trastevere neighbourhood.

As Rome expanded throughout the 20^th century, nasoni were placed in the city’s new districts. Most were positioned along outdoor markets in the proximity of fish and flower vendors, and in important squares. There are currently more than 2000 nasoni in Rome. After more than 130 years, these fontanelle (i.e. drinking fountains) remain part of the Roman daily life and are celebrated by locals and tourists alike for their usefulness and their baroque/neo-classical charm. 
Rome is the only city in the world that
provides these unique fontanelle to quench people’s thirst. The nasone is an impressive emblem Roman culture, history and art. The only Roman symbol that can enhance  your house and your garden.
The nasone we sell is not a replica of the original, but it is the original one itself.