The original fountain was commissioned in 1559 by the mayor Alvise da Ponte following a severe drought.
It was designed to demonstrate the generosity of the Republic of Venice to its subjects.
The fountain remained inactive for centuries until it was restored and relocated to its current position in the late 20th century.
The historical practice of distributing wine lasted for approximately 200 years until it was officially abolished by the French occupation in 1797.
The Fontana delle Tette is a 16th-century Venetian fountain featuring a female torso with exposed breasts. Historically, the fountain was used to distribute wine to the citizens of Treviso during the inauguration of new mayors. Upon a mayor's election, the fountain would flow with white wine from one breast and red wine from the other for three days. The current sculpture located in the courtyard of Palazzo dei Trecento is a copy, while the original is preserved inside the building. This hydraulic landmark symbolizes the city's festive traditions and historical governance.
From the center of the courtyard, focusing on the fountain's detail against the historic brick walls of the palazzo.
Combine your visit with a short walk through the adjacent Piazza dei Signori.
Look for the plaque nearby that provides historical context regarding its former wine-flowing function.
Because it is located in a small courtyard, it can be easily missed if you are walking too quickly.
Do not mistake the modern copy for the original, which is housed safely inside the palazzo.
Access may be restricted during official municipal meetings held within the Palazzo dei Trecento.
