Fonte Branda (Branda Fountain), Siena

The Branda Fountain is the oldest city fountain in Siena. It was principal source of water in the city during the middle ages. The Branda Fountain was designed by Giovanni di Stefano and built in 1246. It is mentioned as an ancient fountain in Dante’s Inferno and the writings of Boccaccio. During the middle ages, it was surrounded by houses of craftsmen and their workshops. Later it became the site of a slaughterhouse.

The area has been restored today to house workshops of craftsmen who strive to preserve the ancient arts and crafts of Siena. Visitors can view the Branda Fountain on their way to the house of Saint Catherine Sanctuary and the Basilica of San Dominico.

The Branda Fountain resembles a small fortress with three pointed arches and crenellations which formed a Guelph battlement during the battle of Montaperti. During the middle ages, it was a rich water source that quenched the thirst of passing travelers, gave power to nearby mills and supplied water to tanners and dyers of woolen fabric in the city. Like all fountains in Siena, the first basin of the Branda Fountain contained water for drinking, the second was used for watering animals and the third was a toilet.