Located at the eastern end of Stradun, off Luža Square, is the historic Small Onofrio Fountain, an ornately decorated octagonal fountain. The small fountain, often overlooked by tourists, played an essential role in the history of Dubrovnik’s water supply.
Italian architect Onofrio della Cava designed and constructed the fountain between 1440 and 1442. He also created the Large Onofrio Fountain located near Pile Gate. Pietro di Martino from Milan handled the sculpting work.
The eight-sided fountain sits in a semi-circle arched niche of the City Guard Building. Ornate carvings include playful children, dolphins, and shells.
Its Gothic and Renaissance elements and reliefs are a fine example of the city’s artistic and architectural innovation at the time.
Though small, the fountain played a significant role in Dubrovnik’s medieval water supply system, providing water to buildings, including the Rector’s Palace, nearby markets, and to citizens of the city.
Today, Small Onofrio Fountain still supplies fresh and clean drinking water to locals and tourists who pass by for a refreshing drink on a hot day.