Rome's Famous Nasoni
Rome's nasoni (meaning "big noses") are the city's iconic cast-iron drinking fountains, numbering over 2,500 across Rome. These small, cylindrical fountains with their distinctive curved spout have provided free, fresh drinking water to Romans and visitors for over a century. Our Rome drinking fountains map helps you locate these invaluable public water sources near major attractions and neighborhoods.
Notable Nasoni Locations
Nasoni Near the Colosseum
Several nasoni can be found in the area surrounding the Colosseum and the Roman Forum. After a hot day exploring ancient ruins, these fountains are a lifesaver. Look for them along Via dei Fori Imperiali and near the Metro station exit. The water is cold, clean, and perfectly safe to drink.
Coordinates: 41.8905, 12.4920
Nasoni Near Trevi Fountain
The streets surrounding the famous Trevi Fountain have multiple nasoni tucked into side streets and small piazzas. While you throw coins into the Trevi, refill your water bottle at a nearby nasone for free. These fountains are especially popular during the summer months when the area is packed with tourists.
Coordinates: 41.9015, 12.4840
Nasoni in the Piazza di Spagna Area
The Spanish Steps area and surrounding streets feature several nasoni. After climbing the famous staircase, cool down with fresh drinking water from one of the nearby fountains. You'll find them along Via del Babuino and the streets leading toward Via del Corso.
Coordinates: 41.9055, 12.4830
Nasoni Around Piazza Navona
The winding streets around Piazza Navona and the Pantheon area are dotted with nasoni. These fountains are particularly welcome during summer sightseeing when temperatures can soar above 35°C. Check side streets off Via dei Coronari and near Campo de' Fiori for easily accessible fountains.
Coordinates: 41.8990, 12.4725
Nasoni in the Vatican Area
The area surrounding Vatican City, including Via della Conciliazione and the Borgo neighborhood, has several nasoni. After long waits in line for the Vatican Museums or St. Peter's Basilica, these fountains provide much-needed refreshment. Refill your bottle before entering, as water inside can be expensive.
Coordinates: 41.9060, 12.4540
Nasoni in Trastevere
The charming Trastevere neighborhood is well-served by nasoni throughout its cobblestone streets. You'll find them near Piazza di Santa Maria in Trastevere, along Viale di Trastevere, and scattered through the winding alleyways. These fountains are perfect for an evening passeggiata through the neighborhood.
Coordinates: 41.8890, 12.4700
Understanding Rome's Nasoni
How to Recognize a Nasone
Rome's nasoni are easy to spot once you know what to look for:
- Shape: Small, cylindrical cast-iron columns, typically about 120 cm (4 feet) tall
- Color: Usually dark grey or green iron, sometimes with a slight patina
- Spout: A curved pipe (the "big nose") from which water flows continuously
- Design: Most feature three dragon-head decorations, earning them the nickname "dragon fountains"
- Flow: Water runs constantly — this is normal and by design
How to Drink from a Nasone
There's a local trick to drinking from a nasone like a Roman:
- The Roman way: Place your finger over the main spout opening, and water will shoot up through a small hole on top of the pipe — like a drinking fountain
- Bottle refill: Simply hold your water bottle under the curved spout to fill it up
- Quick drink: Cup your hands under the flowing water or drink directly from the stream
Is the Water Safe to Drink?
Yes! Rome's nasoni water is 100% safe to drink. The water comes from the same municipal supply that serves Roman homes and is regularly tested to meet strict EU drinking water standards. In fact, much of Rome's water comes from ancient aqueduct sources in the surrounding mountains, making it some of the freshest tap water in any European city. The only fountains to avoid are those marked "acqua non potabile" (non-drinkable water), which are rare.
Environmental Benefits
Rome's nasoni network offers significant environmental advantages:
- Reduced plastic waste: Carry a reusable bottle and refill it for free, eliminating the need for single-use plastic bottles
- Carbon footprint: Drinking from nasoni avoids the environmental cost of bottled water production and transport
- Save money: A bottle of water near tourist sites can cost 2-3 euros; nasoni water is completely free
- Ancient tradition: Rome has provided public water to its citizens for over 2,000 years, from ancient aqueducts to modern nasoni
- Cooling effect: The constant flow of water helps cool surrounding areas during hot Roman summers
History of the Nasoni
The nasoni were first installed in 1874 by the city of Rome to provide free drinking water to citizens who could not afford indoor plumbing. The original design was created with three spouts shaped like dragon or wolf heads. Over time, the design was simplified to the single-spout version most commonly seen today. The tradition of public water access in Rome goes back to ancient times, when the Romans built an elaborate system of aqueducts to supply the city's many public fountains and baths.
Practical Tips
- Bring a reusable bottle: A refillable water bottle is essential for any Rome visit
- Summer hydration: In July and August, temperatures regularly exceed 35°C — drink frequently
- Nasoni apps: Several smartphone apps map nasoni locations using GPS
- Not all fountains are nasoni: Rome's decorative monumental fountains (like Trevi) are not for drinking
- Water temperature: Nasoni water stays refreshingly cool even in summer, as it comes from underground sources