DA PONTE FOUNTAIN
Prešeren Square is the historical and architectural jewel of Koper. The Da Ponte Fountain, first mentioned in 1423, served as a key source of water for the town until the end of the 19th century.
The Da Ponte Fountain, one of the most important architectural elements of Koper, illustrates the historical significance of the town’s water supply. Once the terminus of the aqueduct that brought water from the nearby hills to the town, the Da Ponte Fountain was rebuilt in the mid-17th century by the podesta Lorenzo Da Ponte, who gave it its present Baroque appearance. The octagonal water basin, adorned with balusters, pyramids, coats of arms, and stone faces, symbolizes the connection between Koper and the Venetian Republic.
For centuries, the Da Ponte Fountain served as a vital source of water for Koper when it was still an island. Its architecture reflects not only functionality but also aesthetic and symbolic value, linking Koper to the rich Venetian tradition. The octagonal water basin, surmounted by an arch with decorative elements, is an outstanding example of the town’s Baroque architecture.
The coats of arms of the Da Ponte family and other significant bourgeois families who financed the fountain not only adorn it but also tell the story of a community deeply connected to water resources and their conservation. Stone faces representing water and mythological deities add a mystical and artistic dimension to the fountain.
The fence around the fountain, featuring pillars adorned with coats of arms, serves both a practical function and as a tribute to those who contributed to the enrichment of the town’s infrastructure.
Today, the Da Ponte Fountain stands as a symbol of the past, harmoniously intertwined with the present, and as a reminder of a time when water was essential to the town’s survival. As one of the main historical monuments of Koper, the fountain remains a popular spot for visitors and locals alike, who come to admire its beauty and connect with the town’s rich history.
What to do?
The village of Popetre has been on the windward path since Roman times. Take a walk to the important points…
