Fontana delle Sette cannelle, fontana di Pitigliano
The Fontana delle Sette Cannelle is a large fountain on the Piazza della Repubblica in Pitigliano that receives water from the Medici Aqueduct. The structure consists of five tufa stone arches, with the central arch rounded and four flanking lower rectangular arches, decorated with five distinct animal head carvings at the water spouts.
The fountain was built in 1545 by Gianfrancesco Orsini to complete the town's water supply system. The Medici Aqueduct project that ended at this fountain was eventually finished about a century later.
The fountain has been a natural meeting point for residents in the heart of Pitigliano for nearly 500 years. The five different animal heads at the spouts reflect local craftsmanship and continue to shape how people use and view the main square.
The fountain sits in the center of Piazza della Repubblica, directly in front of the Palazzo Orsini and is easy to reach on foot. An adjacent terrace offers broad views over the Val Meleta valley with its gorges and forests below.
The five animal heads at the water outlets are said to represent mythical creatures, including a satyr, a medusa, and a Hercules-like figure. A worn bear sculpture tops the fountain, a symbol tied to old local tales.
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