Pozzo di San Patrizio is an architectural feat that plunges 53.15 m (174.4 ft) into the ground. A set of 248 steps goes into the vertical drop with windows that open into the central well shaft. Look for the Latin inscription on the well, which translates as, "What nature stinted for provision, application has supplied." The well was created to provide water to Rome in the event of a siege. Pope Clement VII commissioned it when he took refuge in Orvieto after the fall of Rome in 1527. Pozzo di San Patrizio is just one of the many highlights you can arrange to see using our , international travel planner Edition.
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Pozzo di San Patrizio reviews
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Very cool in many ways. You get nice photos and a break from the heat since the temperature is quite a bit lower underground. We went there in the evening and had no waiting at all and plenty of...
Very cool in many ways. You get nice photos and a break from the heat since the temperature is quite a bit lower underground. We went there in the evening and had no waiting at all and plenty of... more »
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I was a little intimidated by the idea of so many steps (because of my knees), but went anyway. Happy I did it! There is a handrail, and the steps are wide on the outer side, so I stayed there. It...
I was a little intimidated by the idea of so many steps (because of my knees), but went anyway. Happy I did it! There is a handrail, and the steps are wide on the outer side, so I stayed there. It... more »
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This is a fabulous engineering marvel worth the visit alone, but Orvieto had many other charms. It is a double helix well built so donkeys could walk down and up simultaneously with out crossing paths. Built in he early 1500s by the Pope hiding in Orvieto from the Holy Roman Emperor to ensure a water supply. Do not miss it if you are in the area. The funicular up from the train station lands right beside the well.
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Highly recommended! I walked down the staircase and reached the bottom of the well. It's deep, so take it easy on your way up and enjoy it!
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