Text LinkThe Fontana del Porcellino is one of Florence's most beloved attractions, located at the Loggia del Mercato Nuovo, not far from the Ponte Vecchio. This bronze sculpture represents a wild boar, although it is commonly referred to as "Il Porcellino" (the little pig) by the Florentines.
The original bronze sculpture of the boar was created by sculptor Pietro Tacca in 1634. The statue was commissioned by Cosimo II de' Medici and was inspired by an ancient Roman marble statue that Tacca had seen at the Uffizi Gallery. The intention was to create a decorative fountain that would also serve as a public drinking trough.
Il Porcellino is depicted in a seated position, with a highly realistic and detailed appearance. The attention to details, such as the fur, tusks, and facial expression, highlights Tacca's skill in bronze work. The boar is placed on a pedestal decorated with vegetation and other small animals, creating a natural effect.
Water flows from the mouth of Il Porcellino, falling into a basin below. This fountain not only served as a refreshment point for animals and people but also became a symbol of prosperity and good fortune.
One of the most famous traditions associated with Il Porcellino is rubbing the statue's nose for good luck. It is said that touching the boar's nose and then placing a coin in its mouth brings good fortune; if the coin falls into the grate below, luck is assured. The statue's nose is visibly shinier than the rest of its body due to the constant touching by visitors.
The original sculpture by Pietro Tacca has been moved to the Bardini Museum for conservation purposes, while an exact bronze replica has been placed at its original location at the Loggia del Mercato Nuovo. This decision was made to preserve the integrity of the original work, which has suffered from the wear and tear of time and weather conditions.
Il Porcellino is a cherished symbol of Florence and a very popular tourist attraction. Its image is used in various contexts, from souvenirs to cultural products, making it one of the city's icons. The Fontana del Porcellino also represents an example of the Florentine tradition of combining functionality and beauty in public artworks.
The fountain is situated in a bustling area of Florence, near numerous craft shops and the leather market, which is an attraction in itself. The Loggia del Mercato Nuovo, where the fountain is located, is a historic area built in the 16th century to host the silk market and other valuable goods.
The Fontana del Porcellino is much more than a simple tourist attraction; it is a piece of Florence's cultural heritage that embodies the city's history, art, and traditions. Its presence continues to fascinate and bring good luck to visitors from around the world, keeping alive one of the many legends and customs that enrich the life of this historic city.
The Fontana del Porcellino can be visited all day, but the best time to admire it is when the Loggia del Mercato Nuovo is open, from 9:00 AM to 6:30 PM.
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