Attraction Guide: Pozzo di San Patrizio, Orvieto, Italy

Pozzo di San Patrizio Guide

Descend into the Depths: Explore St. Patrick's Well in Orvieto Guide

The Pozzo di San Patrizio, or St. Patrick's Well, is an impressive feat of engineering and a captivating attraction in Orvieto. This deep well, commissioned by Pope Clement VII in the 16th century, was designed to ensure a water supply for the city during times of siege or drought. Its unique double-helix staircase allows for separate paths for descending and ascending, preventing congestion and facilitating the efficient transport of water. Prepare to be amazed by the well's depth and architectural ingenuity. The well's construction began in 1527, following the Sack of Rome, when Pope Clement VII sought refuge in Orvieto. Fearing a similar siege in Orvieto, he commissioned the construction of a well that could provide a reliable water source within the city walls. The design was entrusted to Antonio da Sangallo the Younger, a renowned architect of the time. The well was named after St. Patrick, referencing the legend of St. Patrick's Purgatory, a cave in Ireland believed to be a gateway to the afterlife, symbolizing the well's deep and challenging descent. Visiting the Pozzo di San Patrizio is an unforgettable experience. You can descend the 248 steps of the well, marveling at the ingenious double-helix staircase and the light filtering down from above. As you descend, you'll appreciate the scale of the project and the engineering challenges involved in its construction. At the bottom, you can admire the water level and imagine the well's vital role in Orvieto's history. After your descent, reward yourself with a refreshing gelato at a nearby gelateria, or enjoy a panoramic view of the surrounding countryside from the well's entrance.