Fontana della Barcaccia

A 1627 fountain at the foot of the Spanish Steps, designed by Pietro Bernini (Gian Lorenzo's father) in the shape of a half-sunken boat. The design is said to be inspired by a real boat washed up here in the 1598 Tiber flood — and the low position cleverly compensates for the very weak local water pressure. The drinking water from the side spouts is potable and free, fed by the same ancient Acqua Vergine aqueduct as the Trevi Fountain; refill your bottle here.