Minor Fountains in Rome

Rome has a lot of minor fountains sprinkled throughout the streets. Water is piped in from the hills using a system that has changed little since ancient times. Unless there's a sign saying acqua non potabile, the water is potable, so visitors can cool off or refill water bottles. We didn't carry bottles around with us and it was a bit too cold for us to need a drink, but we admired the fountains anyway.

Barrel fountain, not providing wine, alas!

Cannonball fountain, not to be mistaken with Cannonball Run

My favorite--a book fountain!

The S.P.Q.R. around the book fountain stands for Senatus Populusque Romanus, Latin for the Senate and People of Rome. It stands for the ancient Roman Republic's government. The initials can be seen all over the city and are included in the city's coat of arms.