Hidden beneath the medieval streets of Siena, there is another network of passageways. This underground labyrinth, called the “Bottini” and measuring over 25km in total, was created to supply water all around the town. Created between the twelfth and fifteenth centuries, the Bottini were a necessity due to the lack of water which was easily accessible in the town. Now, when the water level is low, the tunnels can be visited and you can take guided tours along two different routes. Though not particularly strenuous a trip, the tight space can be overwhelming, especially for those with claustrophobia. If you think you're brave enough find a villa with pool in Siena and take the tour!
The term “Buctinus”, from which we get the name “Bottini”, is cited in documents for the first time in 1226. This name refers to the shape of the ceilings - “volte a botte”, meaning barrel vaulted – which is found in almost all the “Bottini” bar that at Fontanella which is probably of Etruscan origin and has “tent” or inverted v-shaped vaults. The Bottini network is made up of of two primary branches on two different levels – the main Fontebranda branch, which takes water to Fontebranda from Fontebecci and is 7.5km in length and the Chiarenna branch are both very deep while the main Fonte Gaia branch runs nearer the surface. This branch is longer, at 15.7 km and feeds the fountain in Piazza del Campo and other locations in the city which are at lower altitudes.
As mentioned, work was done on these passageways, primarily in the 12th to 15th centuries but the Fontanella stretch with its tent-shaped ceilings is though to have actually originated during the time of the Etruscans. Originally conceived as a public works scheme to help distribute water across the city, there were also private wells and tanks distributed throughout the city through the collection of rainwater infiltration and veins in the surrounding hills. The importance of the water cannot be underestimated, not only for obvious personal needs, but also in order to deal with the fires which were frequent at the time and for irrigation.
There are two trails that can be taken; the Fonte Gaia-Fonte Giusta stretch and back (which is 1200m in length) and the Fontenuova main branch (610m). Neither is especially challenging but trips will last at least an hour and you will need to come prepared with appropriate clothes, a flashlight and bottled water. Be sure to mentally prepare for the tight, dark, dank space as well as this can be intimidating. Tickets cost € 9.30 and guided tours are available. An unusual way to “see” the city of Siena, to be sure, but fascinating none-the-less!
