14th century city cistern discovered under Dubrovnik’s famous fountain
- by croatiaweek
- in News
14th century city cistern discovered under Dubrovnik’s famous fountain
In the square surrounding Onofrio’s Fountain in the Croatian city of Dubrovnik, a significant archaeological revelation has come to light amidst the restoration of the stone pavement.
The discovery, which includes remnants of a vast city cistern believed to trace its origins back to the 14th century, predating the construction of the aqueduct, has sparked intrigue among historians and locals alike.
Adjacent to the iconic Onofrio’s Fountain, a symbol of Dubrovnik’s aqueduct construction dating back to 1438, lies the site of this remarkable find, HRT reported.
A mere 30 centimetres beneath the weathered stone pavement, the vault of the expansive city cistern has been unearthed, offering a glimpse into Dubrovnik’s past.
Onofrio’s Fountain
Nela Kovačević Bokarica, serving as the archaeological supervisor, shed light on the historical significance of the find.
“The earliest documented accounts of a public cistern in this vicinity date back to the late 14th century. It is known that by the late 15th century, ownership of the cistern transitioned to the monastery of Saint Clare, undergoing thorough renovations during that period,” she explained to HRT.
Until now, the existence of the city cistern, which predates the Dubrovnik aqueduct, was solely preserved within archival records. Spread across the southern and eastern extents of the site, the cistern’s surface hints at its substantial depth, estimated to reach around 5 meters.
“We are yet to explore the portion extending beyond the current scope of our excavation efforts. Its contents remain largely intact, offering insights into water management practices and historical nuances of the era,” remarked Nela Kovačević Bokarica.
Anticipated archaeological findings have not hindered the progress of restoration works. Mihaela Skurić, director of the Dubrovnik Restoration Institute, emphasiSed the need for adaptive project solutions. “We are revising our project plans to accommodate the shallow nature of the finds, ensuring the stability and longevity of the new pavement,” she affirmed.
The site
Prior to the reinstallation of the stone pavement, the ancient cistern will be shielded and preserved with geotextile materials. This remarkable discovery serves as yet another testament to Dubrovnik’s storied past and its enduring societal fabric.
