I love frogs. Recent rain in Brisbane means there is a chorus of croaking in the evening outside my window.
I had a delightful frog experience on my last visit to Rome. I had heard about the fountain and set off to find it.
The fountain itself needs some love and a haircut. It sits in the middle of the Piazza Mincio in the Quartiere Coppede named for the architect who created it, Florentine Gino Coppede. It is a tiny neighbourhood is a mix of Art Nouveau, Art Deco, Italian Liberty and a few other eras thrown in for good measure, quite unlike anything else in Rome.
8 frogs line the top of a basin supported by several human figures. The poor figures are encrusted with calcium and the frogs are sprouting grass but I was enchanted by the fountain. It was an overcast day with occasional bursts of bright sunshine, so the photos are not all good, but you will get the idea.
The buildings that surround the fountain are stunning. My favourites were the Fairy Cottages, covered with decorations and surrounded by a magnificent fence with elaborate gates.
Take a look at this amazing ship. I want one on my house!
The rest of the buildings are covered with animal motifs, spiders, snails, bees, people, curly things…the list goes on.
The Beatles attracted attention to the fountain many years ago when they stepped into the water fully clothed. It isn’t particularly old by Roman standards. It was built in 1924.
I know there is lots to see in Rome, but if you have the time make your way to Piazza Mincio. I’m sure you will be as delighted as I was. It is a short walk from the Gallery end of Villa Borghese (about 10 minutes) towards Parioli.