The Neptune fountain is one of the main attractions of the historic center of Bologna, located opposite the entrance to the Palazzo Re Enzo. It was built in the homonymous square in 1567 on the site of residential buildings, which on this occasion were demolished. The author of the figure of Neptune became famous sculptor Giambologna, who took a sample of a similar fountain in Florence, bearing the same name – the Neptune Fountain. Another name for Bologna fountain "Giant" because its height is equal to 3, 2 meters, and the weight reaches 2, 2 ton.

The base of the fountain is made of local stone, and the exterior finish is made of Verona marble. The Central figure of Neptune surrounded by a variety of bronze sculptures representing the inhabitants of his Kingdom - the sirens, dolphins, cherubim, heavenly creatures, etc. On the sides you can see the papal heraldic shields. The Neptune, armed with a Trident, rises majestically above the pedestal. The fact that all the statues of the fountain naked, repeatedly became the occasion for public debate and censure, some locals even offered to cover the "causal place" traditional Fig leaves. However, organized on the occasion of the referendum the majority of citizens opposed the change of a masterpiece, no matter how obscene it may seem.

The water source for the Fountain of Neptune is a fountain of Remond in the vicinity of the monastery of San Michele in Bosco. The author of the project of the aqueduct leading water from the spring to the fountain and to the Palazzo Comunale, and the fountain was Tommaso of Laureti.

For almost five centuries of its history, the Fountain of Neptune several times completely restored – the last restoration took place in 1988-1990. After the fountain was installed a plaque with the names of all who participated in this financially or physically.