The Fontana Grande is one of the most iconic historical landmarks of Grotte di Castro, a fine example of 19th-century public architecture and a testament to the importance water held in the daily life of the village. Situated on the outskirts of the village, the fountain was originally built as a public utility to ensure a supply of running water for the local population.

The fountain was built in 1886 to a design by the engineer Cerasoli. The official inauguration took place on 13 June of the same year, an event still commemorated today by the two marble plaques on the façade of the structure, which serve as valuable historical records of its construction.

From an architectural point of view, the Fontana Grande stands out for its elegant, striking design. The structure, built of tuff, is framed by curved walls that lend harmony to the whole and create an intimate and evocative space. The fountain consists of two large basins that once served as a vital water collection point for the town’s inhabitants.

At the top is the coat of arms of the Municipality of Grotte di Castro, a decorative feature that emphasises the civic and identity-defining value of the structure. For decades, the fountain has been a hub for socialising, daily life and community interaction, becoming an integral part of the village’s collective memory.

Even today, the Fontana Grande retains the charm of 19th-century public works and stands as one of the most distinctive landmarks in the historic centre, recounting the history and traditions of Grotte di Castro through the elegant simplicity of its architecture.