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Onofrio's Large Fountain: A Renaissance Oasis

A 15th-century Renaissance fountain in Dubrovnik's Old Town, providing fresh water and a picturesque meeting spot.

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Onofrio's Large Fountain, a historical landmark in Dubrovnik's Old Town, has been providing fresh water since the 15th century. Adorned with sculpted masks, it stands as a testament to the city's ingenuity and artistic heritage.

A brief summary to Onofrio's Large Fountain

  • Poljana Paska Miličevića 2000, Dubrovnik, 20000, HR
  • Visit website

Local tips

  • Bring a water bottle to fill up with the fresh, drinkable water from the fountain.
  • Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the crowds.
  • Take photos from the city walls for a unique perspective of the fountain.
  • Explore the nearby Franciscan Monastery and its ancient pharmacy.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    Onofrio's Large Fountain is located just inside the Pile Gate, the main entrance to Dubrovnik's Old Town. After entering the gate, the fountain will be immediately visible on your right, next to the Church of Saint Saviour. No costs are associated with this final approach.

  • Public Transport

    The closest bus stops to Onofrio's Large Fountain are 'Pile' and 'Pile 2', both a short walk away. From either stop, walk through the Pile Gate to enter the Old Town. The fountain will be on your right. A single bus ticket costs €1.73 if purchased at a newsstand or €1.99 if purchased on the bus. A 24-hour pass is also available for €5.31.

  • Taxi

    Taxis can drop passengers off at the Pile Gate. From there, it is a short walk into the Old Town to reach the fountain. Taxis in Dubrovnik calculate fares based on distance, with rates starting at approximately 8.30 HRK per kilometer. The initial charge is 30 HRK. A short taxi ride from a nearby location to Pile Gate will likely cost between 60 HRK and 90 HRK.

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Discover more about Onofrio's Large Fountain

Located at the entrance of Dubrovnik's Old Town, Onofrio's Large Fountain is more than just a water source; it's a symbol of the city's resilience and artistic achievement. Built in 1438 by the Neapolitan architect Onofrio di Giordano della Cava, the fountain was part of a complex water-supply system that brought fresh water from a spring 12km away. This was a significant feat of engineering, ensuring a reliable water source for the city's inhabitants. The fountain's design is a masterpiece of Renaissance art. The large, polygonal structure features 16 carved masks, each with a unique design, from which water flows into a basin. Originally, the fountain was adorned with even more sculptures, but the devastating earthquake of 1667 caused significant damage, leaving only the masks intact. A replica of a dog statue, called “kuchak”, was reinstalled on top of the fountain walls in 2016. For centuries, the fountain served as the primary water source for Dubrovnik's residents. Today, it remains a popular meeting point for locals and tourists alike. The cool, refreshing water offers respite, especially during the hot summer months, and the fountain's central location makes it a perfect spot to begin exploring the Old Town. The fountain and the surrounding area also serve as a venue for various cultural events.

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