Join The Collection to save, track, and explore works like this.

Ventura Rodríguez (design); Francisco Gutiérrez & Roberto Michel (sculpture) — Cibeles Fountain (Fuente de Cibeles)

Cibeles Fountain (Fuente de Cibeles)

1782

This monumental marble fountain depicts the goddess Cibeles seated majestically upon a chariot drawn by two reclining lions, her figure rendered in classical drapery that flows elegantly across the sculptural composition. Designed by architect Ventura Rodríguez and executed by sculptors Francisco Gutiérrez and Roberto Michel, the work exemplifies late eighteenth century Neoclassical aesthetics, combining mythological iconography with fountain design in white marble. The richly detailed base features ornamental relief work and scrolled cartouches, while the dynamic arrangement of horses, lions, and architectural elements creates a sense of movement and grandeur befitting Madrid's principal civic plaza. Water cascades from multiple tiers, animating the sculpture and reflecting light across its pale surface, transforming it into a luminous focal point of the urban landscape. Known colloquially as La Fuente de Cibeles, this iconic work has served as a symbol of Madrid itself, witnessed countless civic celebrations, and remained a touchstone of Spanish cultural identity for over two centuries. Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA)

Medium
White marble fountain

Start the Discussion

Request access to join the discussion

About this work

Ventura Rodríguez (design); Francisco Gutiérrez & Roberto Michel (sculpture), Cibeles Fountain (Fuente de Cibeles), 1782

This monumental marble fountain depicts the goddess Cibeles seated majestically upon a chariot drawn by two reclining lions, her figure rendered in classical drapery that flows elegantly across the sculptural composition. Designed by architect Ventura Rodríguez and executed by sculptors Francisco Gutiérrez and Roberto Michel, the work exemplifies late eighteenth century Neoclassical aesthetics, combining mythological iconography with fountain design in white marble. The richly detailed base features ornamental relief work and scrolled cartouches, while the dynamic arrangement of horses, lions, and architectural elements creates a sense of movement and grandeur befitting Madrid's principal civic plaza. Water cascades from multiple tiers, animating the sculpture and reflecting light across its pale surface, transforming it into a luminous focal point of the urban landscape. Known colloquially as La Fuente de Cibeles, this iconic work has served as a symbol of Madrid itself, witnessed countless civic celebrations, and remained a touchstone of Spanish cultural identity for over two centuries. Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA)

Medium
White marble fountain
Year
1782
Seen at
Plaza de Cibeles

Related themes

Madrid Landmark, Stone Carving, Allegorical Figure, Mythological Subject, Public Fountain, Urban Landmark, Civic Monument, Baroque Influence, White Marble, Water Feature, Spanish Art, Architectural Monument, Eighteenth Century, Plaza Sculpture, Classical Iconography, Neoclassical Sculpture, European Classicism, Historic Fountain, Monumental Art, Outdoor Sculpture