The Branda fountain was enlarged in the 12th Century and was documented as early as 1081, making it one of the oldest in existence. It can be found by taking the Via di Fonte Branda or Via della Galluzza, a picturesque medieval street characterized by eight arches. Rebuilt by Giovanni di Stefano in the mid 1200s, it’s considered the most beautiful fountain in Siena. This fortress-like fountain is made of brick with 3 arches and decorated with gargoyles in the shape of lions and the city’s coat of arms. It’s mentioned by Dante Alighieri in the thirtieth canto of ‘Inferno’.
