Pozzo dei Cani

The Well of the Dogs stands beside Palazzo Piccolomini in Pienza's Piazza Pio II. Its travertine basin, carved arms and inscription dated 1462 make it a distinctive part of the Renaissance square.

Why it matters

Designed by Bernardo Rossellino, the well formed part of Pius II's rebuilding of Corsignano as Pienza. It supplied water to residents and animals while contributing to the composition of the new civic centre.

What to notice

The travertine basin has rounded, pod-shaped ornaments between two columns with capitals. Above it, the architrave bears the inscription “PIUS PP II – MCCCCLXII” and the Piccolomini coat of arms with five crescents. The well stands beside Palazzo Piccolomini at the edge of the trapezoidal square.

Context and history

Pius II's rebuilding programme began in 1459 under Rossellino and transformed his birthplace into a planned Renaissance town. The well's inscription dates it to 1462, one of the final years of the major construction campaign. The origin of its traditional name, “Well of the Dogs,” is uncertain.