Fonte Gaia

Fonte Gaia sits at the highest point of Piazza del Campo's slanted shell, a white marble fountain that's been the square's centerpiece for over 600 years. The rectangular basin features carved reliefs showing biblical scenes and allegorical figures representing virtues, all framed by elegant Gothic arches. What you're seeing is actually a faithful 19th-century copy: the original weathered panels by master sculptor Jacopo della Quercia are safely displayed in Santa Maria della Scala museum, where you can study the intricate details up close.

The fountain creates a natural gathering spot where locals fill water bottles and tourists rest between exploring the surrounding medieval buildings. Water still flows from the carved spouts, just as it did when the fountain first brought fresh water to this hilltop square in 1419. The marble gleams white against the red brick Palazzo Pubblico behind it, and you'll often see people sitting on the steps leading up to it, using it as a backdrop for photos.

Most guidebooks make this sound more spectacular than it actually is. It's pleasant to look at and historically significant, but don't expect to be blown away: the replica lacks the patina and character of the original. Save your real fountain admiration for the originals in the museum, which cost 8 EUR to visit. The fountain works best as part of experiencing the entire Campo rather than a destination itself.