Colombi

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‘Colombi’ (Doves) by Nerino Negri, 1972
Piazzetta Garzeria
Padua, May 2025

“The sculpture titled ‘Colombi’ is one of the most iconic works by Paduan sculptor Nerino Negri (1924–2012), created in 1972 and integrated into the fountain designed by architect Francesco Mansutti. It is located in Piazzetta Garzeria, a small pedestrian area in the heart of Padua's historic center, near Piazza dei Signori and the Duomo. Originally, the sculpture included multiple elements, including doves in flight and in pose, arranged around the fountain's basin. However, due to repeated vandalism and attempted theft over the years, two of the doves in flight were removed and transferred to the Civic Museum of Padua for preservation. The remaining ones are securely anchored, blending perfectly with their surroundings.” (Colombi, Grok)