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Archaeological site · Perúgia, Úmbria
Pozzo Etrusco
Etruscan cistern from the 3rd century BC excavated beneath the center of Perúgia, about 37 meters deep. A walkway crosses the well from inside.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Pozzo Etrusco
The Pozzo Etrusco lies beneath Piazza Danti, next to the cathedral, at the highest point of the city, where the Etruscan acropolis stood. It was probably dug in the 3rd century BC to secure water for the population during a siege and remained in use for centuries.
The well is about 37 meters deep and over 5 meters in diameter. The top is covered by large travertine blocks laid on top of one another without mortar, a technique that demonstrates the Etruscans' engineering mastery.
The visit descends via stairs to a walkway that crosses the well inside, from where you can see the water at the bottom and the stone walls. Access is through the basement of Palazzo Sorbello, and the same ticket often includes the palazzo's house-museum, with furniture, books and embroideries of the Sorbello family.
On the surface, in the small Piazza Piccinino, a stone wellhead marks the site of the cistern.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About 20 to 30 minutes; about an hour including the Palazzo Sorbello house-museum.
Best time
At any opening time. It is a good break in the summer heat because the interior is cool.
How to get there
The entrance is on Piazza Danti, behind the cathedral, a 2-minute walk from Piazza IV Novembre.
Tip
The descent has narrow stairs and wet steps; wear shoes with firm soles. Check whether the ticket includes the Palazzo Sorbello house-museum.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Pozzo Etrusco
How deep is the Pozzo Etrusco?
About 37 meters deep, with more than 5 meters in diameter.
Is the visit accessible for people with mobility impairments?
Not really: the descent is by narrow stairs down to the walkway.
Does the ticket include entry to another site?
It usually includes the house-museum of the Palazzo Sorbello, which is the entrance. Check at the ticket office.