One of the first sights your eyes are drawn to when you enter the old town via the Pile Gate entrance is Onofrio's Fountain. This 15th-century water feature was built to carry drinking water into town via the city’s aqueduct, and today it serves as a popular meeting point for locals and tourists.
The fountain was constructed in 1438 to bring water from the River Dubrovačka, located 7 miles (12 kilometres) away. It was designed by architect Onofrio Giordano della Cava and was part of one of the first aqueducts to be built in the region.
The domed fountain was originally decorated with many sculptures and ornate designs, but they were lost in the 1667 earthquake. Look at the sculpted features that remain. They are 16 carved heads through which water flows into a drainage pool.
Stop for a break on the ledge that surrounds the fountain. Musicians often play in the area, providing entertainment while you rest your feet. The fountain water is safe for drinking, so it is an ideal spot to fill up your bottle. For additional refreshment, go to one of the cafés and restaurants nearby.
At certain times of day, the fountain serves as the departure point for walking tours organised through the nearby tourist office. If you are walking along the city’s old defensive walls, you will find some good vantage points to photograph the large fountain from above. To take some photographs of the famous fountain without the crowds being present, arrive early in the morning.
Be sure to see the smaller fountain located near the other end of the Stradun. This cascade was also created by Onofio Giordano della Cava. It is decorated with dolphin reliefs and carved heads and its function was to supply the market on Luza Square with water.
Find Onofrio's Fountain next to Pile Gate in front of St. Saviour Church. The smaller fountain is near Ploče Gate, next to the bell tower.
