Fontana delle Tette

About

The Fontana delle Tette, literally "Fountain of the Tits", stands as a striking relic of Treviso’s Renaissance past amid the city’s historic streets. The sculpture, crafted in 1559 on the orders of Venetian mayor Alvise Da Ponte during a severe drought, depicts a topless woman pouring wine from her breasts—a symbolic tribute of prosperity and nourishment. For three years each fall, the fountain famously released red and white wine to the public, a unique celebration that attracted crowds to the square. Rebuilt in 1989, the fountain continues to be a popular landmark for both locals and tourists who come to marvel at its playful design and rich history. Visitors are free to approach and admire the statue, which has become an emblematic piece of local folklore. Despite its somewhat provocative appearance, the fountain is celebrated for its historical significance and the story it tells of medieval ingenuity and hospitality. The surrounding area remains lively, with nearby cafés, boutiques, and the old city walls, making the Fontana delle Tette a natural stop when strolling through Treviso’s rounded medieval streets. Local guides recommend a stroll in the early hours or late afternoon to catch the monument in softer light, while the city's robust gallery and market scene offers a pleasant contrast to the fountain’s historic charm.

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