Pozzo della Cava (Quarry Well Archaeological Complex), Orvieto (must see)

The Quarry Well is entirely excavated from the rock on which Orvieto is built and consists of two interconnected sections, reaching a depth of 36 meters. These two sections include a small rectangular Etruscan well and a round Renaissance well designed for spring water.

The history of Quarry Well is closely tied to Pope Clement VII, who sought refuge in Orvieto in 1527 during the Sack of Rome. Concerned about the city's water supply in case of a siege, the Pope ordered the excavation and adaptation of this well to reach the spring water. Additionally, Pope Clement VII commissioned the construction of the famous St. Patrick's Well on the opposite side of the town.

The rediscovery of Quarry Well came in December 1984 when Tersilio Sciarra uncovered the well after more than three centuries of disuse. At that time, the well was only 25 meters deep, filled with earth and debris. The restoration work began in the spring of 1996, aiming to return the structure to its original appearance.

In addition to the well itself, visitors to Quarry Well can explore nine caves surrounding it. These caves offer insights into medieval life, including the use of small pits known as "butti" for disposing of rubbish. The caves also reveal remnants of ancient Etruscan burial tombs and medieval foundations, such as a large pillar that supported the medieval Filippeschi tower.

One of the most impressive underground chambers measures 14 meters and served as a tuff quarry in the 18th and 19th centuries. Within this chamber, you'll find an Etruscan tunnel, a second Etruscan well, and various medieval and Renaissance artifacts. Notably, there are two kilns for pottery: a large medieval kiln from a ceramic workshop featuring majolica and terracotta artifacts, and a smaller kiln used for firing precious Renaissance "lusterware" pottery.

The underground spaces also include rooms excavated during the Middle Ages for the production and storage of Orvieto's renowned wines. These rooms feature staircases and repurposed Etruscan cisterns that collected rainwater from nearby rooftops.

During the Christmas season, the Quarry Well hosts a special event called "The Christmas Crib in the Well," featuring self-moving life-size characters and creating a new experience each year.